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SARASOTA – The Fourth of July Bayfront Fireworks show has become a tradition here on the Suncoast.

With the return of the fireworks show last night we find out what it takes to put together the spectacular display that helps us celebrate the birth of our nation.

After 11 days full of events that helped raised money for several local nonprofits here on the Suncoast. The Sarasota Bayfront Fireworks show is back after a two year hiatus – illuminating the Sarasota skyline.

For more than 10 years the Sarasota Bayfront Fireworks have become a pinnacle for residents all across the Suncoast.

After the COVID pandemic put a stop to the decade long tradition on the Bayfront – General Manager with Marina Jack Greg Corvelle says they’ve been waiting for this Fourth of July in particular.

“The word is finally. We’ve been waiting for two years now,” said Corvelle. “I can’t believe we haven’t done this since 2019. There’s a lot that goes into this.”

So, what exactly goes into planning one of the biggest fireworks shows in our area?

“It’s permitting from the city, it’s arranging police help, it’s what’re we going to do downtown? There’s just so many things,” said Corvelle.

Hosted by Marina Jack and Suncoast Charities for Children – the Bayfront Fireworks show wraps up the week-long festivities that come along with Suncoast Summerfest.

Though the dazzling 21-minute pyrotechnic show celebrates America’s freedom – the real winners are the charities receiving the generous donations.

“It was rough last year not having these events,” said Executive Director of Suncoast Charities for Children Lucy Nicandri but over the past 11 days a lot of the events that have been held drew in big crowds, raised a lot of money for charity, but also brought the community together and that’s what it’s all about.”

For many, this year’s Fourth of July celebration offered hope for future and symbolized the rebirth of our nation after a tumultuous year.

“It’s about people being happy,” said Corvelle. “Just getting back to a little sense of normality and that’s why we’re here and that’s why we do what we do.”