Buffalo Rising Online

Jul 1st, 12:14pm By Jennifer Lawandus

A recent raid that netted two tons of black market fireworks guarantees that Buffalo's sky will be less lit up this 4th, but its citizenry will be safe.

It's always a better idea to keep your fingers, toes and eyes intact, and head out to ooooo and ahhhhh over organized and supervised fireworks in Buffalo.

Though there are only a few venues to see fireworks in Buffalo, don't forget that at certain points along the water, you can enjoy the distant fireworks of other towns and villages, while enjoying the Buffalo-based shows. On July 4, Riverside Park and the Central Wharf on the Erie Canal Harbor will host displays.

Starting one day early, Dunn Tire Park will hold their largest fireworks show of the season after the Bisons take on the Rochester Red Wings at 6 PM on July 3rd. Tickets are $22 each and can be purchased by clicking here, if you want to take in the game. Still, anyone hanging around downtown will be able see the 'works for free (as long as you're south of the tallest buildings).

On the 4th, fireworks will begin at dusk in Riverside Park and 9:45 at the Cental Wharf. Of course, both locations will be offering more than just fireworks.

Riverside Park festivities will host a daylong festival, starting with a 10:30 AM kiddie parade, and food stands will open at noon. At 1 PM, a parade will travel from River Rock to Riverside Park, with rides beginning at 1 also. At 1:30, enjoy the America's Idol Singing Contest finals, followed by music at 2. Willie & The Reinharts take the stage at 7PM. After the fireworks, the park will close at 11.

The Central Wharf will start celebrating at 2 PM-6 PM with hands-on children's activities. 4 PM performances will begin, including The Rod Nickson Project, Boys of Summer, Wendell Rivera Latin Jazz Ensemble, Jackdaw. Buffalo Trivia with Dennis George will be featured throughout the day, and the grounds will close at 10 PM following the fireworks.

If you're planning on attending the events at the Central Wharf, people are being urged to use the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority's Metro Rail. Additionally, the Webster Block, located just opposite the Central Wharf, will be open for paid, public parking.

In a special encore, there will also be another fireworks show at Riverside Park on July 5, beginning at dusk.

Whether you’re attending fireworks on before, during, or after July 4 remember to be safe by not purchasing illegal fireworks and attending supervised firework displays, such as the ones listed above. Remember, it's all fun and games until someone loses an eye.