Drone Show
Marking a first for the Oregon Coast, Lincoln City’s highly anticipated July 4 fireworks display is going drone.
The innovative display will light up the night sky over Siletz Bay with 200 synchronized drones, offering a dazzling, debris-free aerial display that’s gentler on people, pets and the coastal ecosystem.
The transition to drone technology reflects Lincoln City’s growing commitment to environmental stewardship, community safety and inclusive celebrations. Even though the city’s traditional shows in the past have complied with fireworks regulations, they still released plastic, gunpowder and heavy metals – including lead, copper, cadmium and aluminum – into the air, waterways and sensitive natural areas like the Siletz Bay, Salishan Spit and the Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Contaminants from fireworks pose risks to wildlife, degrade the water and soil quality and negatively impact public health.
In addition, there has been growing concern among city officials and residents about the impact that fireworks have on public safety and law enforcement. The sale, offer for sale, possession and use of fireworks are prohibited everywhere within the city of Lincoln City, including all private and public property. Professional fireworks shows are permitted but can complicate enforcement of personal use bans that help limit fire risk during Oregon’s dry season.
Drone shows are also quieter than traditional fireworks, which is better for wildlife, pets and military veterans living with post traumatic stress.
The 15-minute show will be produced by Sky Elements, a seven-time Guinness World Record holder and the largest drone show provider in the United States. The shows deliver visual excitement through movement choreographed to music, with shapes, animations and visual stories unfolding in the night sky.
In addition to the drone show, Lincoln City’s Fourth of July celebration will include live music throughout the day, starting at noon.
The drone show is highly visible and offers excellent viewing opportunities at Taft Waterfront Park along SW 51st Street.