SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – After a year of absence due to COVID-19, the Star Spangled Springfield fireworks will be happening on July 4th this year.

Spirit of Springfield president Judy Matt told 22News the fireworks will indeed happen this year at Riverfront Park on Independence Day, as is tradition.

“We are so excited to be back in the business of bringing the community together in celebration,” said Spirit of Springfield President Judy Matt. “Now is the time to celebrate.  Our community needs this and our spirits need this.  We look forward to a safe and family-friendly atmosphere, and are grateful for the support and services from the City of Springfield and all of our partners.”

Fourth of July fireworks are returning to downtown Springfield after taking one year off due to the pandemic. Every year, the event is put on by the Spirit of Springfield who say they can’t wait to have people watch the fireworks in person once again.

“All these months without being able to come out and see your friends celebrate so we are expecting probably one the largest crowds we’ve ever had and I’m sure it’s going to be a grateful crowd,” said Matt.

The fireworks were not held in 2020, as public gatherings were prohibited under COVID-19 guidelines. The fireworks were originally going to be rescheduled this year to a later date but the recent reopening changes in the state will now allowing them to happen in July.

All state COVID-19 gathering limits and restrictions are being lifted in Massachusetts as of May 29.

Those who are not fully vaccinated will not need to wear a mask but those who aren’t vaccinated are asked to wear one as well as social distance. Mask enforcement will be based on personal responsibility.

Mayor Domenic J. Sarno stated, “When you wish upon a star, magic is sure to follow.  It is with great pride and joy that we announce that our beloved Spirit of Springfield Star Spangled 4^th of July Fireworks are back!  As my administration continues to review our phased reopening plans in light of the Commonwealth lifting and relaxing the COVID-19 Coronavirus restrictions, and after meeting with my Cabinet Heads and Spirit of Springfield President Judy Matt, we are pleased to announce that we are confident that we can hold this joyous and festive event – much as we did 10 years ago with our tornado recovery.  What better way to celebrate the resiliency of our city as we transition to post-pandemic recovery aspects, then with our Star Spangled 4^th of July fireworks.  This is wonderful and great news and will be a huge boost for the psyche of our Springfield and all of Western Massachusetts.  I want to thank Fireworks by Grucci for confirming that they would be able to coordinate the firework display this year and want to thank all of our residents and business community for their patience, understanding, and vigilance during this past year.  Again, Health and Human Services Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris and I will continue to stress that to completely beat this COVID-19 we must all get vaccinated.  Now with the vaccine readily available we can begin the process of healing and recovery.  What better way to kick this off then with some good old fashion 4^th of July fireworks!” 

Additional details about Star Spangled Springfield restrictions and entertainment will be announced at a later date.