by Justin Arter

There’s no better way to celebrate the warm weather and good times of the summer months than enjoying some fireworks. There are many different opportunities to see them all around the county, from carnival to carnival and, finally, the Carroll County Farm Museum. The Farm Museum provides a beautiful location, not far off of Route 140 for members of our community, young and old, to enjoy the explosive display.

The 4th of July Fireworks show at the Carroll County Farm Museum is a 35-year tradition. Born from a partnership between The Lions Club and Rotary Club. Eight years ago The Kiwanis Club of Westminster took over the tradition – and fireworks blanketed the skies until last year.

And even though other community partnerships and donations promised the fireworks would continue, Mother Nature had other plans. The 4th of July Show at the Farm Museum was cancelled due to the weather.

“There’s no big stockpile of fireworks in my garage, I promise!” said Tom Welliver of The Kiwanis Club of Westminster.

The fireworks were purchased as part of a package through Fireworks Extravaganza, a company located nearby. Once the fireworks were cancelled, the company disassembled the set up and the fireworks were returned. This unfortunately cost the club a 25% restocking fee. All told, last year’s non-event cost $7,500, between the cancellation fee, banners, signs, and donations.

The rest of the $13,000 that was raised for the event was then put into a separate account and saved for future shows.​

All in all, it was unfortunate that the show was cancelled last summer, but it has led to a few positives. Gone is a 35-year old rule created be local law enforcement agencies that there could be no rain date.

So get excited and be ready for Fireworks on the 4th of July at the Farm Museum. This time you don’t have to worry about the weather because the show will go on.

DAY: Tuesday, July 4  Raindate: Thursday, July 6

TIME: Gates open at 3p.m., Fireworks start 9:30 p.m.

COST: General Admission applies before 5 p.m. ($10 families/$5 adults/$4 seniors)  After 5 p.m. a $5 donation to Westminster Kiwanis Club per car