MIDLAND, Texas — This year the Midland Chamber of Commerce has decided to use drones for the firework show on 4th of July. However, this doesn't mean the fireworks are going away.
"We're not replacing the fireworks; we're incorporating the drone show into our overall celebration. So, we're still going to have fireworks and as a matter of fact, the drone operators and the firework technicians are working hand in hand, and it's actually expanding the entertainment for the evening," said Evan Thomas, president and CEO of the Midland Chamber of Commerce. "So people are going to have more bang for the opportunity whenever they come down here."
Thomas said the idea to add drones came from wanting to bring something fresh to the fireworks show and enhance the experience for spectators.
“We wanted to incorporate the drone shows. It's a unique element, obviously. Fireworks being shot off and exploding in the air is a fantastic experience with the drones," Thomas said. "You can create pictures in the sky. We'll have 150 of them up in the air creating imagery. It's going to be really entertaining for people to come out to.”
Thomas also said he hopes the drones become a regular part of the celebration from here on out.
The 61st Annual Children’s Parade will be kicking off the event and there will also be live music and a fun zone for the kids as well.
People can go to the MCC's website to see both the upcoming event's schedule and an FAQ with information about the rules for the event.