Shelbyville Chamber planning fireworks show

SHELBYVILLE — The Independence Day holiday will feature a full night sky of fireworks courtesy of the annual fireworks show, presented by the Greater Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce.

The show traditionally occurs at the Dam West Recreation Area at sunset, allowing attendees to see a display lighting up the night sky and over Lake Shelbyville.

The Chamber traditionally requests donations for the display. This year was no different as Chamber Director Katalyn Dragovan was present at a recent city council meeting to ask for a donation.

“The fireworks are one of the biggest draws of the summer tourist season,” said Mark Shanks, city commissioner over Buildings and Grounds.

Other council member concurred with that sentiment. Mayor Jeff Johnson noted that the city donated $6,500 last year to the fireworks show.

“Like everything else, fireworks are getting more expensive,” noted Wayne Gray, city commissioner over Public Safety.

Currently, it’s unknown how much more expensive fireworks will be this year, but it will depend on several factors, including the supply chain and tariffs on China threatened by President Donald Trump.

Should the tariffs on Chinese imports, including fireworks, go into effect, there could be significant price increases, potentially by 54% or higher.

The price hikes may consider rising sea freight costs and production challenges as well.

As a result, the council opted to donate $7,500 to this year’s show.

The Chamber is also offering businesses and individuals the opportunity in becoming a sponsor, as low as $125.

To donate, contact the Chamber through their website, on Facebook, or by calling (217) 774-2221.

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