Fire Over the Fox

Festival Foods Fire Over the Fox will return to downtown Green Bay this July 4, bringing with it the largest fireworks display in Northeast Wisconsin — but fireworks aren’t the only thing to see at this annual event.

Before the fireworks go off, Fire Over the Fox attendees can enjoy a variety of music, entertainment and food.

“Honestly, the setting for this event is top-notch,” said Mary Rhode, vice president of marketing and communications at On Broadway, Inc. “To have so much programming, live music, food options and more, capped off with the largest fireworks show in northeast Wisconsin, all set along the beautiful Fox River in downtown Green Bay. You just can’t beat it!”

A variety of music will be performed on the event’s three stages.

“Festival Foods Fire Over the Fox never disappoints with its wide array of music,” Rhode said. “From Latin to rock, we’ll be sure to keep your feet moving and hands clapping. We even have a stage dedicated just to kids, featuring some of the area’s best interactive performers.”

Performer lineups for each stage can be found on the Festival Foods Fire Over the Fox webpage.

A returning favorite, the Waterboard Warriors Ski Team, will perform an additional show at this year’s event.

“The Waterboard Warriors Water Ski Team is always a crowd favorite, and with two shows this year, we are doubling the fun,” Rhode said.

New this year, an Artisan Market will give attendees opportunities to shop from local vendors.

“With the added celebration of America250, we wanted to add a few fun additions to this year’s event, and this is one of them,” Rhode said. “Historically, we’ve always had inquiries from non-food vendors to participate in the event. This year, the Artisan Market provides that opportunity!”

Organizers are reminding attendees to be mindful of various construction projects going on in both Leicht Park and around the Fox River Trail as they navigate this year’s Festival Foods Fire Over the Fox.

“Regarding Leicht Park construction, some programming and activities have been shifted to other areas of the event footprint to accommodate current construction happening in the park,” Rhode said. “Attendees can still expect the Festival Foods Main Stage and some food vendors to take up the north end of Leicht Park and access to that area will not have any restrictions. Additionally this year, some Fox River east side fireworks viewing spots will look different due to large black pipes being in place for the Downtown Interceptor Renewal Project by NEW Water, the brand of the Green Bay Metropolitan Sewerage District. For safety, attendees are asked to steer clear of these pipes. Attendees can expect no access to the Fox River Trail from the north side of the Main Street bridge via the sidewalk adjacent to the Hampton Inn. Access to the Fox River Trail will still be possible from City Deck.”

Those looking to maximize their experience at this year’s event are encouraged to consider VIP seats for a premium viewing experience.

“The VIP seats truly are the best seats in the house! This up-close, riverside view is one not to miss,” Rhode said. “No need to worry about securing your seats, hauling lawn chairs, or blankets. Your ticket includes your reserved seat and a view you’ll always remember.”

Tickets for VIP seating are $12 each and will be on sale through the day of the event or until they are sold out.

Aside from VIP seating, Rhode offered the following tips for maximizing your experience at Festival Foods Fire Over the Fox.

“With this year’s added activities in the morning, the race, and Saturday Farmers’ Market, you truly can spend the entire day in downtown Green Bay! The added festivities for America250 give people of all ages the chance to enjoy all that downtown has to offer,” she said. “We encourage attendees to utilize the numerous parking ramps on the east side of downtown as they are close to all the festivities. There are multiple viewing locations for the fireworks, but a staff favorite spot to watch is from the east side of the Main St. bridge. A few other reminders: Remember to bring cash, although beverage tents and many food trucks do accept card. Please remember your sunscreen and water, especially if the temperatures will be warm as they were last year. And lastly, please leave your pets at home as it is a city ordinance and is for their safety and the safety of others.”