Blast into Summer with the 2013 Branford Fireworks

While the official first day of summer is Friday, June 21, Dale Izzo sees the Branford fireworks display as the “unofficial kickoff to summer.” And this year, you don’t have to wait much longer for that kickoff as the fireworks are Saturday, June 22 – always the Saturday following the Branford Festival, Izzo explained.

The Branford fireworks are more than just a pyrotechnics display as the committee – which consists of eight members, including Izzo – has been working on the event since February. They booked several vendors to be on-site at Branford Point selling food, including hot dogs, pizza and ice cream. Committee chair Jeff Vailette said many people also enjoy picnics at Branford Point, as well.

There will also be music provided by 99.1 WPLR leading up to the fireworks, which are put on by Bay Fireworks, a New York-based company that works with licensed shooters with Branford roots.

“We design the show with them down to the music,” said Izzo. “They try to tailor it to Branford and they have a vested interest in the town as they live in the community.”

Izzo said another great feature of the Branford show is that there are many viewing spots, including Branford Point (shuttles to the Point from the high school and the Cherry Hill commuter lot starting at 5 p.m.), Foote Park, Hospice and, of course, those who live along the shoreline also get a great view. Vailette said the committee has received financial support from those in that area, but donations are always helpful.

While the town funds some of the show’s expenses, including costs for the police and fire coverage, donations play a key role. Volunteers will be on hand at the show collecting donations and you can also donate online.

“The town is really behind this and it’s great that we get to have these wonderful events with the backing of the town,” said Izzo. “Seeing the people leave the park and truly happy because we’re able to do all this is great and they help out with donations where they can.”

While the weather is looking good so far, there is a rain date of Sunday, June 23. Any postponements will be posted on the Branford Recreation Department’s website, as well as on Branford Patch.

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2013 Branford Fireworks at a Glance

• When: Saturday, June 22 (rain date: Sunday, June 23)
• Where: Fireworks will be shot off at Branford Point
• Viewing Locations: Branford Point, Foote Park
• Shuttle Locations: Branford High School and Cherry Hill commuter lot
• How to Donate: At the show or online