Get Out: Lakefront fireworks are tonight!

Today, tens of thousands of people will converge at Milwaukee’s lakefront to be dazzled by the spectacular Independence Day fireworks show that’s performed one day early and hosted by U.S. Bank.

With temperatures in Milwaukee County expected to reach close to 100 degrees, it’s going to be as hot as a sparkler outside. An enormous, blazing torch of a sparkler. But that’s not going to deter locals from attending the event, especially those who have made the U.S. Bank Fireworks Show a yearly tradition.

Actually, folks have been staking out spots and laying down blankets in Veterans Park and along the lakefront since yesterday afternoon, even though the explosion of fireworks won’t erupt until roughly 9:30 tonight.

At that time, rockets will be launched from three barges on Lake Michigan. The show features three sections, each with its own finale. The first section includes a precision timed firing of shells; the second section includes what organizers call "mass effects," or whatever that means; and the third section features a booming barrage of effects, says the Journal Sentinel. All in all, this year’s pyrotechnics display will feature 10,000 pounds of fireworks with 20,000 shells and an electronic timing system connected by more than eight miles of wire.

The number of "oooos" and "ahhs" that’ll come from the crowd is impossible to estimate, though. But one thing I do know is that thousands of people enjoy the July 3 fireworks each year. So if you're thinking about going, you'll want to get there early to secure a primo spot - perhaps a shaded one - for fireworks viewing. And don’t forget to pack a lot of water!

If you’re heading to the lakefront later in the day to avoid the blistering sun and brutal heat, consider that park officials expect Lincoln Memorial Drive to close at about 6 p.m. You can take a downtown bus to the lakefront, or hop the Summerfest shuttle along Wisconsin Ave. as an alternative to driving.

For those of you that want to avoid the crowd and the sweltering temps altogether, you can still watch the fireworks display live by clicking over to WITI-TV (Channel 6).

Of course, Milwaukee County Parks and other communities have Fourth of July parades and fireworks planned. But, due to severe drought conditions in southern Milwaukee County, several municipalities have issued a temporary ban on fireworks; some cities have even canceled their fireworks display entirely. Still, many public July 4 fireworks displays are scheduled. For the Milwaukee County lineup, head over here.

With that, stay cool and enjoy the show!

Original photo from Flickr.com (Creative Commons) by b.perica