Selectmen approve $36,000 fireworks contract, move launch site and raise entrance pass prices

The New Canaan Board of Selectmen on March 17 authorized a contract with International Fireworks Manufacturing Company to produce the town's July 4, 2026 fireworks display, set rain dates and approved related logistics including a revised launch location and higher entry-pass pricing.

David Chain, speaking for the Parks and Recreation/Fireworks Committee, described the proposed contract as similar to prior years and estimated the cost at about $36,000. "Our relationship with International has been fantastic over the last 15 years," he said.

The board also approved moving the launch site eastward, a change committee members said will reduce trespassing into the launch area, broaden viewing within the park and improve exit traffic flow after the show. "That will significantly increase the speed at which cars will be leaving the park," a committee member told the board.

As part of the package, the board approved increasing the entrance-pass price to $40 in advance and $50 the day of the show; the fee is a family pass and has been used historically to cover costs. The board also approved closing Way Park for setup on the day of the event and permitting food trucks and vendors during the event.

Tucker confirmed the contract had passed legal review and a certificate of insurance will be obtained before execution. The motions passed unanimously.

Next steps: staff will secure the insurance certificate, finalize the contract, and publish pass-purchase locations and event logistics on the town website and partner outlets.