Fourth of July fireworks over Fort Myers Beach. File photo by Nathan Mayberg
What’s Up FMB has launched a community fundraising drive to support a Fourth of July fireworks and parade celebration, the organization announced.
The celebration, being called “Red, White, & Beach,” is being planned to be in partnership with the Town of Fort Myers Beach.
The Town of Fort Myers Beach canceled its Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve fireworks shows for the current budget year during its budget process last September.
The total estimated cost to produce the Fourth of July Fireworks and Parade is $129,000, according to a statement put out by What’s Up FMB this past Friday in announcing its plans. The cost includes fireworks, required permitting and safety services, operational and logistical support including hiring the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, and the fireworks barge used for the display.
According to What’s Up FMB, a barge valued at $44,000 has already been fully donated.
Another $25,000 has also been donated to secured the fireworks deposit, the organization said in its announcement.
“This is about creating the opportunity for a full Fourth of July celebration to happen,” said Dawn Miller, President of What’s Up FMB. “With major components already donated and secured, this community-driven effort allows us to responsibly plan both the fireworks and the parade in partnership with the Town.”
The fundraising campaign will run through May 31. If funding falls short, alternative options include a scaled-back fireworks display potentially. Any funds not used for the Fourth of July celebration will be reserved for future fireworks initiatives, including New Year’s Eve.
For campaign details, updates, and to support the drive, visit https://www.whatsupfmb.com/fireworks-fundraiser#DonatetoFireworksFundraiser.
What’s UP FMB is a local nonprofit organization that was formed by local business leaders to support more community events, attract more tourism and business to the island.