CHICAGO (AP) — The annual Fourth of July fireworks show that drew more than
a million people to Chicago’s Lake Michigan shores has been canceled.
The Chicago Park District is now in charge of the event. District
spokeswoman Jessica Maxey-Faukner says the fireworks show was “a reasonable
expense to cut.” The city is encouraging people instead to attend the Navy
Pier fireworks shows on July 2 and 4.
Maxey-Faukner says 2010 fireworks cost the city $110,000 not including more
than $750,000 in police expenses. Last year instead of one large show the
city had three smaller fireworks shows along the lakefront.
The city has cut other events to save money. Chicago’s annual illuminated
boat parade, Venetian Night, was cut in 2009 after 52 years. At least four
festivals also have been canceled.
