The city of Columbia announced Thursday that the Fire in the Sky event July 4 will only have a firework show.
Normally, the ceremony would have activities, food and a huge gathering. This summer, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the city wants to preserve the safety of its citizens, a city news release said.
To help people see the firework display while staying at their homes, the location has been changed to Cosmo-Bethel Park.
The park’s elevation, space for the fireworks and distance from city buildings and state highways will prevent any type of issues from the display, the city said.
Last year, Fire in the Sky was held at Flat Branch Park downtown. The Cosmo-Bethel Park location will help the fireworks reach 300 to 600 feet of height, increasing visibility to many homes in Columbia, according to the release.
The city asks people not to assemble in large groups and maintain social distance while watching the show. The Fourth of July Fire in the Sky event will start at 9:15 p.m.