COVID-19 altering Highland’s annual July 4 fireworks celebration at Glik Park

Highland’s annual fireworks celebration will go forward on the Fourth of July, but it will be very different than in years past.

The fireworks display will be at Glik Park as usual, but unlike the traditional celebration, the park itself will be closed and no vendors or parties will be permitted. The parking lots at Glik Park will also be closed, as will the restrooms.

”The city of Highland’s highest priority is the safety of our citizens,” said City Manager Mark Latham. “With that, we are definitely going to be closing Glik Park and the restrooms, so there will be no one in the parking lots and no activities like we usually do. We are asking people to find a spot.”

Usually the Fourth of July celebration is throughout Glik Park, with the streets closed off and service clubs sell food or operate bounce houses.

Residents are asked to remain in or next to their vehicles in groups of 10 or fewer, using social distancing and face coverings. They are asked to find spots to observe the fireworks in the surrounding streets and neighborhoods, though the usual parking ordinances will be in force.

At the council meeting Monday, Highland Mayor Joe Michaelis asked about parking along City Cemetery Road. Latham said it would be best if people did not park inside the cemetery.

“They will be changing the fireworks to shoot a little higher than they normally do,” Latham said.

He estimated the show might be visible as far away as St. Joseph’s Hospital.

Attendees are also asked to use hand sanitizer and stay at least 6 feet from other families. Avoid high-touch public services and do not attend if displaying flu-like symptoms, as per the COVID-19 guidelines provided by the federal Centers for Disease Control.

The fireworks show will begin at approximately 9:15 p.m. July 4.