AUSTIN, Texas — Another Austin tradition is back!
This year, Austinites were once again able to put on their red, white and blue and to enjoy the Austin Symphony Orchestra’s Fourth of July concert and fireworks at Vic Mathias Shores. The event was canceled last year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
People were very excited to come out with their families and friends to experience the show once again.
"It's good to have some freedoms and celebrate and be outdoors, so we are excited," said Carl, an Austin resident.
"Just seeing everyone out and about is super fun," shared Sarah, who recently moved to Austin. "Like everyone is happy, no masks, it is awesome to see."
The event has been held in Central Austin since the 1970s, along the shores of what’s now known as Lady Bird Lake.
"I came here when I was a kid and I haven't been back since, so it's good to be back," shared another attendee.
With help from sponsors like H-E-B, the show and fireworks was free for all to enjoy. For some younger kids, this was their first fireworks show ever.
"I have only seen them on TV," said Ezri, who was there with her parents and big sister, Adley.
Adley said that, last year, they had to watch the fireworks from inside the house, so she was happy to see them in person.
The program was scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. at Vic Mathias Shores, located across from the Long Center on Riverside Drive, but inclement weather delayed the show. The show featured guest speakers along with patriotic classics performed by the symphony.
PHOTOS: Fourth of July concert, fireworks return this year to Auditorium Shores
After dark, an extended fireworks show lit up the night sky against the backdrop of the city skyline. KVUE livestreamed the show here:
But that’s not all! Vendors were on-site selling food and beverages, as well as crafts and memorabilia. Some vendors said that the event meant a lot to them, after over a year of not being able to bring their booths to the people.
"Really just to see everyone watching the fireworks and how calm it gets when that happens, it is really cool, just to see everyone enjoying the night," said Cassandra, who was working at a food booth.
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