Fireworks Return to Tarpon Springs

After being proposed to the City Commission on May 7, a Fourth of July fireworks display will proceed in Tarpon Springs at Fred Howard Park.

Commissioner Townsend Tarapani was responsible for putting the item on the agenda.

A native to Tarpon Springs, Tarapani said the tradition has been greatly missed and he is excited to be a part of bringing it back.

"It's a tradition honoring the men and women who have fought and died for this country and our freedom," Tarapani said.

The display formerly took place at Whitcomb Bayou, but due to public safety issues and a failing economy, the event was cut all together several years ago. 
These days Tarapani said the city is in a more suitable place to host such a display. 

Pinellas County agreed to waive the parking fee on the approach to Fred Howard Park's beach access. According to Tarapani, this will be the ideal location to catch the fireworks from. 

Boaters are encouraged to anchor nearby for a view from the water.

Tarapani said his proposal included launching the fireworks from Sunset Beach, which will leave plenty of room for safety precautions and hopefully will provide for a successful first year back in Tarpon.

"It's something that I felt was important to bring back as a community tradition," Tarapani said.

So, Tarpon Springs, what do you think? Are you excited for the return of a fourth of July fireworks display? Let us know in the comments section below.

Stay tuned to Tarpon Springs Patch for news on the Fourth of July event as it takes shape.

Sign up for the free Tarpon Springs Patch newsletter and receive daily updates in your email inbox. Click here to sign up.