Representatives of the volunteer committee that organizes the annual community fireworks show in Ithaca report that some V-I-P packages are still available for this year’s show on Monday night, July 2.
Fran Benedict, chair of the committee, says anyone in the community is eligible to become a Very Important Patron of the fireworks. The deadline for V-I-P packages has been extended to June 22.
The V-I-P area features a mini-concert by Aaron Kelly, the young country singing sensation, the ever-popular Alice Detrick, and Ramone, the Italian crooner.
Festivities begin about 6:30 p.m., weather conditions permitting, with tethered hot-air balloon rides thanks to RE/Max In Motion Real Estate. The V-I-P area, atop Ithaca College’s South Hill campus, provides an “up-close and personal” view of the fireworks show, plus a barbecue buffet beginning at 7 p.m. Fireworks begin at about 9:45 p.m.
This year, Ithaca College and the Friends of Ithaca College will be honored with a special fireworks display. The college is 115 years old and the Friends organization is celebrating its 50th year of support for Ithaca College.
In addition to stage entertainment, there will be clowns, magicians, face painting, and games for children throughout the evening. The V-I-P package, which costs $135 for a family of five, also includes a special parking pass, an after-glow party and a special exit route following the fireworks.
“Make the V-I-P area even more fun by getting a carload or two of your friends and family together and have a great time while you keep alive this Ithaca tradition,” Benedict said. “You might even consider making this a company picnic for your employees and their family members. It’s a great way to kick off the local observance of the Independence Day Holiday weekend.”
Benedict said the V-I-P package is an exciting way to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and other milestones, and groups of ten or more may reserve tables in the V-I-P area.
For information about V-I-P packages, available through June 22, contact Fran Benedict at Tompkins Trust Company at 273-3210. Information is also available on-line at communityfireworks.com.
https://www.ithaca.edu/intercom/article.php/20070618132641579