Salina celebrated 250 years of America over two days this Independence Day weekend, beginning with a patriotic party in the park Friday and ending Saturday with a large fireworks display. The weekend featured free food, old-fashioned games, and family-friendly fun.
Friday’s Play Day in the Park marked the 49th year Salina has held the event, with a return of a bubble machine that created suds for kids to enjoy. Saturday started with early morning storms in the area, but by evening the sky cleared in time for the 250-years celebration.
A large crowd gathered at the Berkley Family Recreation Area for the Skyfire fireworks spectacular, presented with support from JRI Hospitality, the City of Salina, and community partners. The fireworks were synchronized to a patriotic music montage aired on three Meridian Media radio stations.
In addition to the main show, the article describes fireworks heard and seen throughout town on both nights, with residents gathering on lawns and in neighborhoods for fellowship. It also notes that fireworks rules in Salina shifted over time—fireworks were prohibited beginning in December 1965, the ban was partially lifted in 1987, and both Salina and Saline County bans were rescinded in 2009.