By Matt de Simone
The air was clear of doubt—no rain in sight. The sky split with a blue-flamingo hue like one of those Bob Ross paintings where, at first, you don’t know where he’s going.
While Ross produced the occasional “happy accident,” the Fincastle community witnessed sheer happiness.
Sunday presented the first fireworks display for the county seat in two years. In 2019, the event, unfortunately, was double-booked with a rainstorm. Two months later, the rain returned to wash out 2019’s Fourth of July celebration on Labor Day.
Last year—well, enough about last year.
The baseball fields and playground of Breckinridge Elementary School provided a familiar setting for families and friends. Spirits were high. The crowd felt the freedom of a summer venturing back to “normal.”
Frisbees whipped through the spectators, cans jammed, and footballs spiraled. A few wiffleballs whizzed by unsuspecting attendees, but no kids were ejected. There were a few close calls as joyous toddlers ran from their parents, giving chase. Spectators shared the same expression: all smiles.
The creaks of the Breckinridge swing set increased as the hour drew near. Around a quarter to nine, the sparklers lit up. Their wielders grinned, whirling words trailing off in the air.
As for the main event, who doesn’t love booming pyrotechnic splendor? Minutes before the booms blasted from behind Breckinridge Elementary, a nearby neighbor fired off a few “bangers,” forcing a flock of resident robins to fly south for the moment.
The familiar smell of mortar remains piqued the interest of the spectators. Soon, the show began–provided by John Cosgrove of Master Displays Limited.
Bursts of green, blue, and red showered the atmosphere. Rounds of applause echoed throughout Fincastle in the brief breaks between explosions.
Freedom rang true. July 4th brought forth a much-needed time for the community to come back together and enjoy the celebration and fellowship. Happy birthday, America.
