NewsCoronavirus

Actions

The fireworks show goes on in Independence Township despite COVID-19, just relocated to the top of Pine Knob

Posted at 10:29 PM, Jul 03, 2020
and last updated 2020-07-03 23:17:40-04

CLARKSTON, Mich. (WXYZ) — The coronavirus pandemic has canceled a lot of events around metro Detroit, including annual fireworks shows. But that’s not stopping one township from lighting them off for people to enjoy.

Fireworks and the Fourth of July go hand in hand. But many cities, including Clarkston, had to cancel their annual event. But that didn’t stop Independence Township from putting on a show for residents to enjoy.

The top of Pine Knob was the scene for fireworks after Clarkston canceled their annual festival due to COVID-19.

“Our township supervisor, as well as the board, thought it would be a great idea for the community to have fireworks. Give them a little bit of enjoyment on the Fourth holiday,” says Independence Township Fire Marshal Bruce Harbin.

So Independence Township said they will still have a show, but not from the ground. From the top of Pine Knob.

“It’s the highest points, one of the highest points in Oakland County, and that way the entire community can see it,” says Harbin.

People who live nearby are able to enjoy the show from the comfort of their own home, while others can enjoy the show from their car.

“With Fourth of July, what a great way to see what’s going on,” says Glen Kelley, “Just got to find a good place to see it and it should be a good show tonight.”

No parking was allowed at DTE Music Theater or the Pine Knob ski resort, this firework show was for people to enjoy from afar.

Additional Coronavirus information and resources:

Click here for a page with resources including a COVID-19 overview from the CDC, details on cases in Michigan, a timeline of Governor Gretchen Whitmer's orders since the outbreak, coronavirus' impact on Southeast Michigan, and links to more information from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, the CDC and the WHO.

View a global coronavirus tracker with data from Johns Hopkins University.

See complete coverage on our Coronavirus Continuing Coverage page.

Visit our The Rebound Detroit, a place where we are working to help people impacted financially from the coronavirus. We have all the information on everything available to help you through this crisis and how to access it.