Great Bend is gearing up for a community firework’s display worthy of America’s 250th birthday. The annual display takes place on Friday, July 3, at the Great Bend Expo Complex.

Gates will open at 7:30 p.m. and the pre-show will air at 8:30 p.m. on KHOK 100.7 FM - Eagle Country. The fireworks are scheduled to start around 9:45 p.m., pending light and weather conditions.

This year’s fireworks show is an extra special celebration and will include five extra minutes of entertainment, with 488 main aerial and 220 finale shells for a 22-minute show. In addition, the SRCA Dragstrip will host a stop on the NHRA Hot Rod Heritage Series that same weekend at the Expo Complex.

Parking

Due to the NHRA Heritage Races happening the same weekend, parking will be limited at the Expo Complex. Spots will be available between SW 50 Ave. and G Ave. No parking will be allowed on B-29 Way. The fireworks display will be moved at the end of the return track, 1,800 feet west of its normal location, to accommodate the races. The City recommends those planning to attend the fireworks show to arrive early to secure parking.

Sponsors

This year’s fireworks display was made possible by the following sponsors:

Sky-Rocket Level – All Staff Chartered; Freedom Claims Management; Fireworks For Less; Mid-America Ready Mix; The Great Bend Tribune; The City of Great Bend; Scott’s Welding Service, Inc.

Saturn Missile Level – James and Kathi Armatys; Brentwood Builders; Comfort Pro, Inc.; Farmers Bank & Trust; Great Bend Rec Commission; Great Wall Super Buffet; Keller Real Estate and Insurance; Marmie Auto Group; Moeder Plumbing, Heating, & Air; P&S Electric and Security; Sutherland Lumber Company; Valvoline Instant Oil Change; Wheatland Electric Cooperative

Firecracker Level – Barton County Farm Bureau Association; Countryside Veterinary Associates; Peoples Bank and Trust

Sparkler Level – Bauer Pike Law, LLC; Great Bend Psychiatric Services; Kiwanis Club of Great Bend; Moore Properties; 10th Street Eyecare; Victory Barber Shop

Firework Rules

Great Bend residents will have two days instead of the usual one for discharging their own fireworks this year. The Great Bend City Council approved Ordinance No. 4472 and Resolution No. 051826-B at the May 18, 2026, meeting to expand the allowance of residents to discharge fireworks in city limits on July 3-4 between the hours of 10 a.m. and midnight in honor of America 250. Only Class C fireworks are allowed to be sold and discharged within city limits and can only be used on residential property.