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Westport PAL Brings 56 Years Of Fireworks To Town

WESTPORT, Conn. – The Westport Police Athletic League doesn’t just cater to the town’s youth. Next Tuesday, it will entertain thousands of Westporters of all ages at its 56th annual Fourth of July fireworks at Compo Beach.

“It’s a great community tradition — a time when everyone comes together to celebrate our independence and watch a perfect fireworks show,” said Westport PAL President and Police Capt. Sam Arciola. “It is probably the largest social event in town.”

Although specific numbers have not been recorded in the past, Arciola said the event draws around 10,000 people to the beach.

This year’s display will once again be produced by Fireworks by Grucci. Known as the “first family of fireworks,” this New York-based, family-owned company produces shows across the country and internationally. According to its website, the company produced fireworks for seven consecutive presidential inaugurations and several Olympic Games.

“We put our trust in the Grucci family. This will be their 10th year with us,” Arciola said. “Their shows are non-stop fireworks.”

Although the approximately 20 minute show won’t begin until after 9 p.m., Arciola said there will be food, vendors and performances leading up to it. Entertainment will include performances by the Connecticut Alumni Band and the Music Theatre of Connecticut, vendors will be on hand selling a variety of items for children, and Joey’s by the Shore will be open.

For the first time, Melissa & Doug, a Wilton-based toy company founded by Westport residents Doug and Melissa Bernstein, is sponsoring the event.

“We think this is one of the greatest community events in Westport, and it’s long been one of our favorites,” said Doug Bernstein. Both he and Melissa are Staples High School graduates. “We feel so grateful to the Westport community for all it’s done to support our business, and this is a perfect way for us to give something back.”

Tickets for the fireworks are $30 per car and are selling fast, Arciola said. They can be purchased at the police department, 50 Jesup Road, or the Parks and Recreation office, 260 Compo Road S.

Once these tickets sell out, he said, a limited number of shuttle bus passes to and from Longshore Club Park will be available for purchase. Shuttle passes are $30 and can also be purchased at the police department or Parks and Recreation.  

In the event of rain, the fireworks will be held on July 5.

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