City to put on July 4 fireworks show but isn't announcing specific location
LAS CRUCES – The city of Las Cruces has confirmed it will celebrate the Fourth of July with a patriotic fireworks display this year, but hasn't disclosed where they are being launched from.
In its news release the city said the show "can best be seen by looking toward the night sky generally above the center of Las Cruces beginning at about 9:15 p.m." on Saturday, July 4.
According to the Parks and Recreation Department, fireworks will be visible if a resident looks in the general direction of the U.S Highway 70 bridge over Interstate 25.
It's in "the best possible location for high visibility in Las Cruces to as many people as possible," the city stated on its website.
By not disclosing a location, the city is trying to discourage large gatherings, which are prohibited under the state's public health orders.
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The city is also trying to discourage residents from even parking near where the fireworks are being launched.
In a series of frequently asked questions about the fireworks show on its website, the city answers the question, "But what if we stay in our vehicle to watch?" with: "The City is encouraging everyone to stay home and view the fireworks display because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the public health order restrictions from the state governor’s office."
This year's display is being produced by "professionals who have experience conducting shows in other communities such as Washington, D.C., and New York," the city stated.
There will be no accompanying music this year.
For information on this year's fireworks display contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 575-541-2550 or visit http://www.las-cruces.org/2163/Fourth-of-July-Celebration.
In past years, fireworks displays put on by the city have been launched from the New Mexico State University campus, the Field of Dreams parking lot and the Hadley Complex.
Mesilla to host fireworks
An adjacent fireworks display will be taking place in Mesilla to celebrate America's birthday. Mesilla officials recently announced that it also canceled other associated Independence Day events such as music on the plaza.
The live fireworks display in Mesilla begins at 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 4. Fireworks will be launched from the corner of Tierra de Mesilla and Avenida de Mercado behind Las Cruces Academy.
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According to event organizers the best place to view the fireworks is from your vehicle and is reminding residents to social distance, wear face masks and avoid large gatherings.
For information visit facebook.com/oldmesilla or call the Town of Mesilla at 575-524-3262. To view health guidelines visit nmhealth.org
Jacqueline Devine can be reached at 575-541-5476, JDevine@lcsun-news.com or @JackieIsDevine on Twitter.