- April 26, 2024
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The Tourist Development Council approved a dual-county $30,000 Fourth of July fireworks weekend. Next stop: County Commission.
The Flagler County Tourist Development Council approved a Flagler Beach/Palm Coast joint Fourth of July extravaganza this year, for a cost of $30,000. The motion still needs to be voted on by the County Commission.
For years, Flagler Beach played host to the only fireworks show in town. But last year, Palm Coast threw its star-spangled hat into the ring, putting on its own display at the Town Center, sponsored by the Flagler County Rotary Club.
This year, both cities will collaborate, putting together a two-day event that may or may not ignite a new county tradition.
A reverse of 2010’s schedule, Palm Coast will hold its event Friday, July 3; Flagler Beach will celebrate on the Fourth.
“We’re destination-focused,” Peggy Heiser, vice president of tourism development at the Chamber, said of Flagler County. Turning the Fourth of July into a weekend event rather than a one-shot fireworks display, Heiser said, could be just the push the county needs. With many events to promote, Heiser said she can build packages that are more appealing to potential tourists.
Heiser is working with the TDC to build the weekend’s marketing plan.
Last July, the county’s hotel occupancy rate was 58%. She believes Flagler can do better.
“If we create this old Americana-themed event,” Heiser said, “I believe we can get (visitors) to extend their stay.” But success depends on strategy.
Complete with parades, live bands, food vendors and fireworks, Heiser envisions the weekend turning into a true attraction.
“I think it’s important that our county experience some really good events, and I think quality of life is important. I think it’s a win-win for everybody.”
According to TDC Secretary Susan Rosonina, funding for Flagler Beach’s fireworks show in the past has been provided by the TDC for a cost of roughly $10,000. In the past three years, that number jumped to $15,000; and last year, the county footed the bill, through its general fund.
Palm Coast’s 2010 Fourth of July event was paid for by the Rotary Club, which collected $15,000 of donations from local businesses.
TDC’s approval of the $30,000 joint fireworks affair will be voted on by the Board of County Commissioners Monday, May 2.
