Calvary Chapel bringing back Fourth of July fireworks show to Downey High

DOWNEY — Calvary Chapel Downey has announced the return of its Fourth of July fireworks show.

The event – to be held at Downey High School on Saturday, July 1 – will feature kids entertainment and activities, musical performers, shopping, food trucks, and a 15-minute fireworks show.

Senior Pastor Arthur Reyes described the event – called “Freedom Festival” - as “a community event designed for the entire family.”

“Really, [Freedom Festival is] a space where families can come, a safe place, and get a positive message,” said Reyes. “Obviously for us it’s gospel centered…”

Reyes said that the message of the festival would be one of hope, while also celebrating “the freedom we have in our country and the freedom we have in Christ.”

The event is free and open to the whole community. The church is anticipating to draw a large crowd, with upwards of 4,500 people.

The fireworks show will be handled by a professional firework company.

Calvary Chapel had put on a similar showcase for many years, however the event ceased sometime around 2014.

Former Mayor Rick Rodriguez, who had been involved with the event in previous years, said “It’s the best way to celebrate.”

“Illegal fireworks in our city have always been a big issue because we’ve had fires,” said Rodriguez. “This is the best way to mitigate that, because you have a professional firework company that’s working with our Downey Fire Department, that’s been hired by Calvary Chapel Downey, to put on fireworks show that you can see from Stonewood Mall, from the Promenade, from the high school.

“It’s really the best way to celebrate, and at the same time it really brings our community together.”