The Cedar Boat Club is excited to announce the return of the Ellis Fireworks back to it’s historic date on Wednesday, July 3rd after dark. The Club has provided a free July 3rd fireworks display at Ellis Park & Harbor for more than 40 years, returning in 2023 after a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic. The Ellis Fireworks have been an annual tradition for generations of Cedar Rapids families, with an estimated attendance of 40,000 residents and visitors.
Viewing: Best viewing from the Ellis Park & Pool, Five Season Ski Show bleachers, NW Cedar River riverfront, Ellis Harbor and surrounding areas - and if prime seating is a priority for you, get there early! All Ellis Park pavilions are reserved by the Club as a requirement of the City’s Special Events Permit. However, they are available for corporate parties or family use with a donation to the Ellis Fireworks. Reach out to the Cedar Boat Club for more info on reserving a pavilion.
Parking: The majority of parking on Ellis Road will be blocked off to allow for uninhibited access for emergency services. Parking in Ellis Park, at the Ellis Pool and ball diamonds, and in the surrounding neighborhoods is all first come, first serve. Please do not block private driveways and be sure to clean up after yourselves for the sake of those neighborhoods.
Road Closures: During this event Ellis Boulevard will be closed from Ellis Lane NW to 16th Street NW beginning at 6:30 pm, including vehicle access to Ellis Harbor. Other street closures in the area may occur as determined by the Cedar Rapids Police Department.
Security: A Cedar Rapids Special Police Force has been hired to provide event security. Their command post will be near the Ellis Pool. Please alert uniformed police officers if you see concerning activity or large groups of unsupervised minors. We also ask that you do not allow your teens to group up unsupervised with their friends, as these groups are where fights tend to occur. Keep your kids safe and with you and your family.
Food Vendors: A variety of food vendors will be onsite as well as Club concessions with baked goods, popcorn and glow merchandise. Food trucks near Ellis Park will include Boulevard Grill, Hatchett’s BBQ & Catering, Pitas Mediterranean & American Cuisine, Born to Fry, Kona Ice, and Mima’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream.
Event Sponsors:
