Severe weather forces United Way of Kearney Area to push ‘Freedom Fest’ fireworks to July Fourth

KEARNEY, Neb. (KSNB) - United Way of the the Kearney Area announced Wednesday night that its annual Freedom Fest was canceled and that they would return on July Fourth to do fireworks at 10:30 p.m.

Before the rain and windy weather rolled in, the Fourth of July celebration was underway full of games, music, food and fun out at the Viaero Event Center.

Although the event didn't officially begin until 6 p.m. , people were piling in and ready to go well before then.

Not only was the event a celebration, it was a fundraiser for The United Way of the Kearney Area.

Executive Director Savannah Lyon said it's one of their biggest of the year.

"It really serves a dual purpose, one is that it brings the community together to celebrate summer, celebrate independence day, just celebrate all the amazing things going on but it's also a really significant fundraiser for us," said Lyon.

President of The United Way of the Kearney Area April Meyers said it's a great way to see the community come together.

"It's a fun event, and we have stuff for all ages here, it's just a great way for the whole family to come out. We have cornhole, bounce houses, we have a dunk tank, there's just lots to do here," said Meyers.

After the event was canceled, Lyon took to the group's Facebook page to update everyone on the situation.

She said she will discuss with the board on Thursday what the fireworks situation will look like. She noted that they won't have volunteers or vendors like they did on Wednesday.

She praised the people who helped make sure everyone got out safe on Wednesday when the weather started getting bad.

"That means the world to us," Lyon said. "It really points to the type of community we have."

In an email sent out on Thursday, Lyon said the storm came quickly and it was difficult to know what was going to happen and when.

As for the fireworks, Lyon said they are planning to light them at 10:30 p.m. from Viaero. This will be in coordination with the Country Club's so that they are not going off at the same time.

The show will be open to the general public, however there will be no amenities provided.

Lyon said "I understand that it is unfortunate and seemingly unfair. Your ticket provides incredible benefits to the community supporting our work and many local nonprofit partnerships. We hope that you will be able to come out to Viaero and enjoy the fireworks this evening."

The United Way of the Kearney Area works with over 15 partner agencies in the area to provide a healthy community, financial security and youth opportunities.