Will Fort Lauderdale just say no to fireworks?

Many cities across the U.S. have already replaced fireworks shows with drone light shows. And Fort Lauderdale could be next.

City commissioners plan to debate the topic on Tuesday during a meeting that begins at 1:30 p.m.

Drones light shows are considered safer than traditional pyrotechnics, with their fire risk and falling debris. They’re also quieter. And cheaper.

Fort Lauderdale spent $145,000 on its Fourth of July fireworks show in 2025. A drone show would cost around $40,000, city officials say.

Synchronized drones can create stunning light shows in the night sky, with zero smoke or debris.

“I’m open to it, but I want to make sure the quality is there and that it’s going to be spectacular,” Commissioner Steve Glassman told the South Florida Sun Sentinel. “I don’t want it to be a dud. I think environmentally it’s cleaner, and it’s something new so it’s cool. But not all drone shows are equal.”

Other cities in South Florida have already embraced drone shows, including Pompano Beach, Lauderhill and Miami.

But not everyone is going to like the idea of swapping out a traditional fireworks display for a drone show, said community leader Bill Brown, a longtime Fort Lauderdale resident and president of the Central Beach Alliance neighborhood group.

“You’ll never make everyone happy,” Brown said. “Some people resist change. And this would be a major paradigm shift for some people.”

Pet owners with dogs who shake and tremble at the loud boom that comes with fireworks shows might just give the idea a thumbs up, Brown said.

“My dog shakes and tries to hide behind the sofa,” Brown said. “He does not like the boom. A drone show would have less of an impact on pets and the environment. And it’s cost efficient. I think it’s a smart move.”

Drone light shows could be paired with fireworks or used as the primary display should the commission opt to do away with fireworks.

Fort Lauderdale put on its first drone light shows in July and has continued to use them at select events to evaluate feasibility and audience response, city officials say.

Fireworks displays require logistical coordination, including fire watch staffing by the Fire Rescue Department, according to a city memo.

In addition, the city’s Fourth of July fireworks show requires barge and tug services and marine safety coordination, adding to the overall cost.

Drone shows require coordination with Federal Aviation Administration along with site-specific safety planning, but generally present a reduced operational footprint compared to fireworks displays, the city memo said.

Susannah Bryan can be reached at sbryan@sunsentinel.com. Follow me on X @Susannah_Bryan