More Cities Across US Replace Traditional Fireworks With Drone Displays, Citing Fire Risks and Reduced Air Quality

Fireworks go off above the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol during an Independence Day fireworks display at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington on July 4, 2022. Stefani Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images

Some cities across the United States have opted for a different kind of 4th of July celebration this year. Salt Lake City, Utah, and Boulder, Colorado, will be featuring their first drone shows as opposed to the traditional firework displays, in an attempt to offer a safer alternative to fireworks.

According to Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall, the drones are a safer alternative to prevent excess air pollution and reduce the risk of wildfires.