Draper's personal fireworks ban runs through Saturday, July 25, but families looking for a Pioneer Day light show have a free option about 30 minutes south at Utah Lake.
For the first time, fireworks will launch from two barges over Utah Lake on Friday, July 24, at 10 p.m. The show celebrates Pioneer Day, America 250, and what organizers call the "spirit of Utah County." Admission is free, though parking fees may apply at the marinas.
The event came together fast. Utah County Commissioner Skyler Beltran said the entire production was organized in 11 days after Lehi Councilwoman Emily Lockhart and state Rep. Stephanie Gricius called him with the idea. Beltran described the coordination as a "Herculean effort" involving the Utah Division of Fire, Forestry & State Lands, the Department of Natural Resources, Utah Lake Authority, the Utah County Sheriff's Office, local cities, and area businesses.
"I can't stress enough how many people and organizations had to say, 'We'll get it done,' to make this event a reality," Beltran told ABC4. "The level of collaboration, urgency and willingness to step up has been incredible."
Draper is one of roughly 30 Utah cities enforcing a full fireworks ban for the Pioneer Day window, according to Fox 13. Gov. Spencer Cox announced the hybrid policy on Sunday, July 20, giving individual cities authority to allow or prohibit fireworks based on local wildfire conditions. Draper, which sits in extreme drought territory along the Wasatch Front, opted to keep the ban in place for the entire July 22–25 window. Violations can carry fines up to $1,000, and anyone who starts a fire with illegal fireworks may face criminal charges and liability for firefighting costs, according to the city's fire department.
The city's fireworks page notes that residents were evacuated during the 2020 Traverse Mountain Fire, which was started by fireworks in a restricted area.
Where to watch the Utah Lake show
Organizers recommend three shoreline spots:
- American Fork Marina — closest views of the barges
- Lindon Marina — convenient shoreline access
- Utah Lake State Park — panoramic view across the water, good for families
Attendees can tune their car radio to FM 100.3 for a synchronized musical soundtrack. Boaters may watch from the water but must use navigation lights; only motorized vessels are allowed on the lake after dark.
More details are available at FireworksUtahLake.com.
Coming up
- Friday, July 24 — Utah Lake fireworks, 10 p.m. Free admission. FireworksUtahLake.com
- Saturday, July 25 — Draper's personal fireworks ban expires at end of day
