“It’s a typical 4th Fest fireworks show,” Keisling said. “This is a very highly rated show because of the size and the close proximity from the VIP viewing area.”
The grand finale, according to Keisling, is a ground-rumbling spectacle, so intense that there’s no mistaking that the end is near. Last year’s finale featured 42 shells going off each second for more than a minute, he said.
“We know how to do a big ending,” said Keisling, now in his 10th year as director.
Other big things at 4th Fest, spread throughout the University’s East Campus, include 21 bands playing on three stages, the Parade of Heroes featuring helium balloons as long as 55 feet and as tall as 35 feet, and a 14-foot American flag birthday cake. Funding from 220 sponsors and an army of approximately 580 volunteers make it all happen.
“It is amazing that they’re as dedicated and supportive as they are,” said Keisling.
With rain in the forecast, Keisling insisted the celebration is a rain or shine event, and that precipitation won’t dampen the fireworks.
“The show goes on. … We know how to shoot in the rain,” he said.
The Firecracker 4K run kicks off the day at 9 a.m., starting near the Bryce Jordan Center, and according to Keisling, a record attendance nearing 1,200 is expected. In it’s second year, the Parade of Heroes begins at 2 p.m. in front of the State College Municipal Building, passes through the downtown area, enters campus and ends at the Intramural Building. Also a team of lumberjacks from Minnesota will show their skills in 11 different events at 4:30, 6 and 7:30 p.m. Members of the audience will have the chance to get a quick lesson on logrolling and be able to test their balance on a log floating in a giant pool.
“The public is encouraged to bring a change of clothes, and we’re told that everybody ends up in the water,” Keisling said.
For a complete schedule of events and map, go to http://www.4thfest.org/4thfest/downloads/.