San Gabriel approves $71,000 contract for enhanced 2025 drone show; council to appropriate $26,000 from general fund

The San Gabriel City Council voted unanimously April 15 to award a $71,000 contract to Grizzly Entertainment to produce an enhanced drone show at the city’s July 3 Independence Day celebration and to appropriate $26,000 from the general fund to cover the incremental cost.

Community Services Director Perez presented the proposal, saying Grizzly’s quote includes up to 500 drones, theatrical lighting, two lasers, coordinated smoke effects and choreographed music. "Based on the proposals, staff recommends working with Grizzly Entertainment," Perez said, citing last year’s positive experience with the vendor.

The city’s 2024 drone show cost $45,000, Perez said; the recommended 2025 program and enhancements raise the total to $71,000. The fiscal year 2024–25 event budget is $50,250; staff asked the council to appropriate an additional $26,000 from the general fund, with sponsorships expected to offset part of the cost. Perez said staff will pursue corporate sponsors and present sponsorship materials with the mayor’s and city manager’s signatures.

Council members asked staff to repeat last year’s reservation system because venue capacity limits required preregistration, and to begin parking and traffic planning earlier this year. Council Member Wu said the city should limit the number of tickets per reservation and explore additional parking and shuttle options to reduce neighborhood impacts. Staff said it will coordinate with San Gabriel Unified School District on site layout, parking, and any pet-friendly viewing areas.

The council approved the contract and the appropriation by a 5-0 vote. Staff expects sponsorship revenue and community coordination to reduce net city cost for the event.