Firefall takes place in Springfield, Missouri, just 30 minutes north of Branson, in a hay field that once a year is converted into a huge patriotic party.
Around 60,000 people show up for this event, each year. It has become a tradition in this area since it first began in 1982. While the sun is still up in the Springfield area, people can spend the day listening to live local music and top entertainers from Branson. There are vendors sprinkled through the field that sell food and non-alcoholic drinks, but people are of course welcome to bring their own food and coolers. To keep the crowds comfortable and safe, there are about 70 portable toilets, a Lost Kids Tent, and a St. Johns Regional Health Center ambulance. Security is provided by the Springfield Police and Fire Departments, Greene County Sheriff's Department, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Undercover police offers roam the grounds to take care of any trouble that may arise.
Once the sun goes down, the real party begins. Firefall is one of the few choreographed fireworks displays in the country that uses live symphonic music, provided by the 83-member Springfield Symphony Orchestra. Crowds of the past have seen more than just fireworks in the sky above the transformed hay field, there have been performances by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, hot air balloons, a laser light show, the Freebird Skydiving Team, and antique airplanes. It's definitely a wholesome family party atmosphere, with people lounging around on chairs and blankets, under tents, and even in the air-conditioned comfort of their RVs. Many people park their cars elsewhere and leave the driving to the complimentary shuttle bus drivers.
Additional Information: You may want to bring sunscreen, flashlight, insect repellent, and something to sit on (blanket, lawn chair, etc.). Do NOT bring alcoholic beverages or pets. (Assist dogs welcome)
