Beaumont City Council shifts 2025 Freedom Festival to drone show amid fireworks shortage

The Beaumont City Council has made a significant decision regarding the upcoming 2025 Freedom Festival, opting to forgo traditional fireworks in favor of an expanded drone show. This change comes in response to a statewide shortage of certified pyrotechnic operators, which has affected many cities across California.

During the council meeting on May 6, 2025, Mr. Storey presented the challenges faced in securing a fireworks display for the Fourth of July. Despite efforts to negotiate with their usual vendor, Pyro Spectacular, the city was informed that they could not provide an operator for the show. This prompted discussions about alternative options for the festival, which has historically included fireworks alongside other community events.

The council considered two main options: eliminating the fireworks entirely and hosting a drone show on July 4, or moving the fireworks to July 3 and maintaining the Beaumont Nights celebration on July 4. Ultimately, the council voted to proceed with the first option, focusing solely on the drone show for this year’s celebration. This decision reflects a growing trend among municipalities to shift towards drone displays, which are seen as safer and more environmentally friendly.

Council members expressed their support for the drone show, highlighting the positive reception it received last year. They also discussed the possibility of extending the duration of the drone show to enhance the experience for attendees. The council aims to create a memorable event while addressing safety concerns related to fireworks, particularly for veterans and pets.

As Beaumont prepares for its Freedom Festival, the decision to embrace a drone show marks a new chapter in the city’s celebration of Independence Day, aligning with broader community goals of safety and innovation. The council's proactive approach ensures that residents can still enjoy a festive atmosphere while adapting to current challenges.