Red, White, and BOOM! 2009
29th Annual Independence Day Fireworks Show in Columbus, Ohio
Jun 9, 2009
Every year, more than 500,000 people flock to downtown Columbus to be part of Red, White, and BOOM! As long as they don't mind battling the crowds, watching the largest fireworks show in the Midwest is an ideal way for central Ohioans to celebrate Independence Day.
Date, Time, and General Information for Red, White, and BOOM! 2009
This year's Red, White, and BOOM! is sponsored and organized by NBC 4, WNCI 97.9, and Pepsi. The fireworks start at 10 P.M. on Friday, July 3. The show lasts approximately 27 minutes, but be prepared for a long trip home: the downtown Columbus area after Red, White, and BOOM! is always very congested.
In past years, the Broad Street bridge has been closed to pedestrian traffic during the event. This year it will remain open but must stay clear for the Independence Day parade until 6:30 P.M.
New Location for Red, White, and BOOM!
To accommodate the Scioto Mile Project, the launch site for Red, White, and BOOM! was moved to Veteran's Memorial in 2008, where it will also remain this year. The fireworks will still be shot out over the river as usual.
Best Places in Columbus to Watch the Fireworks
Right along the downtown riverfront is the best place to view the fireworks up close and be part of the electric atmosphere, but it is also the most crowded location. Be prepared to show up as early as Friday morning to claim a spot along the riverfront.
In general, locations on the west side of the city have the best views. Other good viewing points downtown are Battelle Riverfront Park (located at 25 Marconi Blvd), Genoa Park (303 W. Broad St), and along the following streets:
- Long Street
- Nationwide Blvd
- Washington Blvd
- Parking garage on Vine St
Goodale Park, located at 120 West Goodale Ave, is also a recommended viewing location for Red, White, and BOOM! It's a good idea to bring a radio, since the fireworks are set to music on WNCI 97.9.
All-Day Downtown Entertainment
Red, White, and BOOM! doesn't just begin with the fireworks show, however. Beginning at 10 A.M. there is entertainment in various locations downtown throughout the day. Stages are located at Genoa Park and Long Street. Hundreds of vendors and a street party with live music takes place on the midway starting at 11 A.M.
Independence Day Parade in Columbus
At 6 P.M. the AEP Independence Day Parade steps off at Broad Street by COSI. The parade will travel east over the Broad Street Bridge, turn north on Front Street, and end at Spring Street. The parade route is approximately one mile long.
Future Dates of Red, White, and BOOM!
When possible, Red, White, and BOOM! is held on the Friday before the 4th of July. Future dates for the Columbus Independence Day fireworks show are:
- Friday, July 2, 2010
- Friday, July 1, 2011
If you're thinking of celebrating the 4th of July in a truly memorable way this year, head to Columbus Ohio for Red, White, and BOOM! 2009 marks the 29th year that people all over Ohio have looked forward to the annual Independence Day event.
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