Last year’s July 4th celebrations seemed subdued and out of place as the “Set the Night to Music” fireworks took place at the Lycoming County Fairgrounds in Hughesville; well, this year, they are back bigger and better in downtown Williamsport in the vicinity of the Hampton Inn and Wegmans on Sunday, July 4.

It wasn’t easy for the celebration’s organizers and Williamsport city officials, though.

“I really commend Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter in getting this done,” said Van Michael, general manager of Backyard Broadcasting, one of the prime organizers of “Set the Night to Music.” “PennDot really had him going through hoops. Initially, they turned down our application for a permit, so we had to apply for a waiver, which was granted. I really think this year’s Set the Night to Music is going to be a great one, and we hope a lot of people come out to enjoy it.”

Mayor Slaughter added, “We are very excited and looking forward to the fireworks returning to downtown Williamsport this year. We had to file a petition for a waiver from the State in order to close Market Street Bridge, which received approval. As always, we ask everyone to be safe and enjoy the 4th responsibly.”

Michael said the uncertainty over the permit made it difficult to line up all the usual bands and entertainment for the event but said there would still be plenty of music and craft and food vendors. He said although the number of bands performing will be less, the time each plays will be greater, and there will be less downtime between performances.

As usual, the world’s largest American flag that always dominates the landscape of “Set the Night to Music” will be there and under the loving care of the Pennsylvania National Guard and the Korean War Veterans of Lycoming County.

This is the 26th year for “Set the Night to Music.” Festivities kick off at 3:00 p.m. The musical entertainment will consist of, in no particular order: The Uptown Music Collective, Mums the Word, Trip the Light, Last Rebels, and Leon and KG and Family Tradition.

Blast Entertainment is providing the sound, and K&S Music is providing the drum set and bass amp.

The fireworks are scheduled to be set off at approximately 9:40 p.m.

The Market Street Bridge will be closed Tuesday, July 4th, from 8:30 p.m. until approximately 10:30 p.m. for the fireworks and cleanup.

The “River Walk” will be closed Sunday, July 4th, from 7:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. from Commerce Park to Maynard St. on the Williamsport side of the river.

All those wishing to attend this event are advised no pets, rollerblades/skates, bicycles, or skateboards are permitted within the event area.

There is absolutely no parking or stopping on or around any highway or road during the fireworks. Additionally, no tents or private fireworks will be allowed in the area of the Hampton Inn.

Handicap parking is on the first floor of the parking deck on Third and Church Streets. In addition, River Valley Transit will offer free trolley rides from all City parking lots to the fireworks area from 6 p.m. through 10 p.m.

Also, on this July 4th, there are other fireworks and celebrations taking place.

In Montgomery, there will be fireworks at dusk on Saturday, July 3. In addition, there will be food sold by the Montgomery Fire Department and the Montgomery Emergency Management Agency.

Another July 4th time staple in the annual Jersey Shore Town Meeting, which is taking place between July 4 and July 10.

In nearby Watsontown, their July 4th celebration will take place on Saturday, July 3, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Their fireworks will take place at approximately 9:15 p.m.

As you can see, there are lots of great opportunities available to celebrate this nation’s 245th birthday. So, have a safe, sane, and sober Independence Day!