Red, White & Boom; Cape’s Independence Day celebration planned for Tuesday
One of the city’s biggest events is planned for Tuesday in celebration of the Fourth of July.
Hosted by the Cape Coral Parks and Recreation Department, the 2017 Storm Smart Red, White & Boom celebration will take place from 5 to 10:30 p.m. at the foot of the Cape Coral Bridge. The free event will feature live music by national and local acts, children’s activities and a fireworks show.
“It is a national holiday designed to recognize our Independence Day,” Todd King, special events coordinator for the city’s Parks and Recreation Department, said. “Many cities across the nation do a celebration. We just do it a little better.”
The event consistently draws about 40,000 people.
“We always anticipate about a half-percent growth every year,” he said.
King noted that the figure does not include boat traffic on the Caloosahatchee.
“Which tends to grow every year,” he said.
Local artist Sheena Brook will kick off the performances at 5 p.m.
“She is our opener opener,” King said. “She is a former contestant on ‘The Voice.'”
At 6:15 p.m., country artist Jacob Davis will take the stage.
“Davis is a national up-and-comer,” King said. “We’re looking forward to hearing his material.”
Headliner Jerrod Niemann is set to perform at 8 p.m.
“He has had several hits,” he said, noting that he became a national hit a few years ago.
“He’s a very good performer,” King said. “He is country music and he’s very American. I think it’s going to be a great show.”
Following the live performances, thousands of fireworks will fill up the night sky.
“It’s called the Storm Smart American Fireworks Spectacular,” he said.
The estimated 20-minute display is synchronized to music.
“It is synchronized to music for the Disney experience,” King said.
Those unable to attend can watch the fireworks on CapeTV, Channel 98 on Comcast. They can also enjoy it all and listen along by tuning in to Cat Country 107.1 or by using the iHeartRadio app.
“We just think the community will be proud of our celebration,” he said.
During the event, Kids Patriot Park will feature attractions such as the Big Baller, Meltdown, Hippo Chomp, a giant slide and an obstacle course, along with a zip line for both adults and children.
“We have a lot of different inflatable rides,” King said.
He noted that the popular zip line is approximately 300 feet long.
“It rides along the river’s edge,” King said.
There will also be face painting and other fun activities.
Tickets can be purchased on site for everything.
Pets, fireworks and outside alcohol will not be permitted at the celebration.
“We ask people to leave their pets at home because of the loud explosions of the fireworks,” he said. “They can bring a cooler, but we ask there is no alcohol in the cooler.”
Chairs and blankets are also permitted, even a sun umbrella.
“All this is welcome,” King said.
For parking and traffic information, visit online at: www.capeboom.com/.
“We do run shuttle buses in loops from the parking areas,” he said.
The Cape Coral Bridge and Cape Coral Parkway – from Del Prado Boulevard east to the bridge, will be closed to traffic from 3 a.m. Tuesday to 3 a.m. Wednesday. Motorists must use alternative routes.
“We’re going to create a safe environment, we’re going to have a very family-friendly venue,” King said. “This is what we think community is all about.”