Jefferson Street Bridge hosts Rockford fireworks show for first time in 25 years

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Rockford’s Fourth of July celebration is moving for 2025, and the fireworks themselves will be shot off from a location not used in 25 years.

For the last two decades, the fireworks have been fired off from Davis Park, on the western banks of the Rock River.

But, Davis Park is set to undergo renovations, necessitating a move of the festivities to the east side of the river.

“Obviously Davis Park is no more. So we moved everything into the City Market Area. We have food vendors. We have live music, which is absolutely free. Our Volunteers will be selling beer and soda and water,” said Ted O’Donnell, who serves as co-chairman of Rockford’s 4th of July Committee.

The fireworks crews will be lighting off the display from the Jefferson Street Bridge.

“The Jefferson Street Bridge is at a higher elevation in town. That’s why we shot off it for a long time, about 30 years in Rockford. So, we’re going back to it, throwing that nostalgia back to our city and, hoping people enjoy the show this year,” said O’Donnell.

The bridge was shut to traffic beginning Thursday morning, so crews could set up for the show.

“The best viewing areas are the other bridges. Comes down to Chestnut Street, you come down to State Street. Joe Marino Park is also a great spot,” O’Donnell said.

One thing that isn’t changing is the parade route, which will run down 7th Street to E. State Street, kicking off at 4:40 p.m. with motorcycles and Jeeps, followed by the main parade.

“Everywhere that there is a city parking lot, whether it’s a parking garage or a flat surface lot, is going to be wide open and free, so you’ll be able to park in those lots. There’s plenty of availability to be able to get downtown. All the main arteries are going to be open, and those parking lots and surface lots are going to be available,” O’Donnell said.