After a year’s hiatus, Branford’s annual pyrotechnics display for Independence Day will light the skies at 9:30 p.m. Saturday, June 26, fired off from Foote Memorial Park on Melrose Avenue. The display has been moved from its usual location at Branford Point’s town dock due to construction at the dock. Rain date is Sunday, June 27.

In 2018, due to work on the Harbor Street bridge, Branford’s fireworks were also launched from Foote Park, which allows the display to be visible from many points around town. For those hoping to have direct viewing of the display, there will be public viewing areas (space limited) at Sliney Field beside Foote Park. Limited parking will be available beside Sliney Field and at Foote Park (use Melrose or Sliney Road access off South Montowese St.). Sliney Park will be open for the day and food trucks will be at the Sliney Park viewing site in the hours leading up to the event. Off site parking and free shuttle will be available at the Cherry Hill commuter lot (Exit 53) and Branford High School (185 East Main), with the possiblity of one other site in the works, said Branford Assistant Parks and Recreation Director Dale Izzo. Visit branfordct.myrec.com for updates or call (203) 488-8304.

Those who do plan to come out to Sliney Park to watch the show are asked to continue to practice health safety protocols, said Izzo.

“As with any large gathering, we just ask everyone to be respectful of one another and to use best practices – wash your hands, wear your mask if you’re not vaccinated, and use social distancing,” said Izzo.

Parks and Recreation Director Alex Palluzzi Jr. said the fireworks display will be high in the sky due to launching from Foote Park and will be visible along the Branford River corridor. Another town park which should offer good views of the display is Hammer Field on Meadow Street, said Palluzzi.

The Branford Fireworks display is an annual effort of the all-volunteer Branford Fireworks Committee. While the event receives a portion of support from the Town of Branford, the committee fundraises throughout the year to help offset the cost of the professional show. Donations are welcome and can be sent c/o Branford Fireworks Committee, P.O. Box 987, Branford CT 06405 or call (203) 488-8304 for other ways to donate.