Happy Independence Day! Bossier fireworks laws and 4th of July events
We're taking a day off from the news but thought you might like these holiday reminders.
Happy 4th of July!
It's time to give your dog its chill pill and tuck the cat into someplace dark and quiet. Neighborhoods throughout the city and parish are ringing out with fireworks celebrations for the Independence Day holiday.
The fireworks law in Bossier City says fireworks can be discharged from June 28th through July 5th — but not before 10:00 am or later than 10:00 pm.
Parish residents may need a little more patience. Bossier Parish does not have a law on the books restricting fireworks. Last December, the Bossier Parish Police Jury decided not establish one. Jurors thought the Bossier City law was "confusing" and "hard to enforce."
Nevertheless, the Bossier City fireworks ordinance prohibits:
Fireworks being thrown or placed into or against any vehicle or into any gathering of people. (Seems reasonable.)
Fireworks thrown, placed or ignited on sidewalks, streets or alleys near schools, theaters, auditoriums, dance halls or at any public place of assembly whatsoever.
Fireworks discharged, ignited or exploded in the city within 1,000 feet of any hospital, asylum or infirmary. (Can I add my house to the list?)
The possession, sale or use of any type of bottle rockets.
The possession, sale or use of sparklers containing chlorates or perchlorates.
The Bossier City Fire Department offers these safety tips:
Young children should never be given fireworks to handle alone. Responsible adult supervision is a must.
Always purchase fireworks from a reputable retail outlet.
Never shoot off fireworks indoors or in other enclosed areas such as carports.
Read and follow all warnings and instructions.
Use a “punk” to ignite fireworks. Never use an open flame such as a cigarette lighter or match.
Never shoot, aim or throw fireworks at people or animals.
Keep a garden hose or bucket of water handy for emergencies. Never try to re-ignite fireworks that have malfunctioned. Douse them with water and wait 30 minutes before properly disposing of them.
Be aware of dry conditions. Never ignite fireworks on or near dry vegetation. Doing so could spark fires.
Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from buildings and flammable materials.
We also saw this less-than-subtle PSA from Bossier Parish Fire District 1:
So have a safe and happy 4th!
2024 Independence Day events in the Bossier City area
40th Anniversary of the Sportspectrum Firecracker 5k Race for Research Run & Healthwalk
Mall St. Vincent at 7:30 AM. Price: $22
KTBS-3 Independence Day Festival
Occurring at multiple locations: Sci-Port, the American Rose Center, South Bossier Park, Cypress Lake, Jefferson, TX, and Longview, TX. Fireworks at 9:30 PM.
Price: Free Time: 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets
Bounce houses and face painting for the kids, food trucks and dueling pianos for everyone to enjoy. A fireworks display begins at 9:30 PM.
360 Boardwalk Blvd Price: Free Time: 5:00 PM
GloFest at the Bakowski Bridge of Lights
The Shreveport Regional Arts Council presents an animated light show on the "Bakowski Bridge" produced by the Light It Up Artist Team and Caddo Parish Students. There will be an arts market, food truck court, street performances by Spinner Entertainment, and more. Park in the Bally's Garage or across the street between Sci-Port and the J. Bennett Johnston Visitor Center.
Price: Free Time: 7:30 - 9:00 PM
Red, White, and Blue Celebration at Louisiana Downs
Celebrating Independence Day and the life and legacy of country music icon and horseman Toby Keith.
4:05 PM: Live horse racing, Toby style.
FREE kids zone, petting zoo, and local food trucks featuring Shreveport-Bossier’s best bites.
8:00 PM: Band performance - American Soldier: A Tribute to Toby Keith.
9:30 PM: Fireworks extravaganza.
Price: Free general admission. Box seats are $45.
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