Want to see a drone light show July 4th? These Phoenix-area celebrations will have them

Fireworks have been a standing American tradition for centuries, even appearing at the first celebration of the country’s independence. 

But an alternative option is popping up at events across the country, including Fourth of July festivities.

In 2012, drone light shows were introduced to the public in Austria. Since then, the displays have become more popular, especially in places with restrictions on traditional fireworks. As of 2021, the new light shows were estimated to be a billion-dollar industry after growth in recent years.

Some proponents of drone shows point to fireworks’ negative impact on the environment and the stress it can put on pets and people with post-traumatic stress disorder. 

What are drone light shows?

The choreographed performances feature dozens or even hundreds of unmanned drones in the sky. The drones are equipped with LED lights that create colorful formations and symbols. The newer type of performance has been displayed at an Olympic Opening Ceremony and Presidential victory speech.

Drone shows create much less pollution than traditional fireworks. Fourth of July fireworks add 42% more pollutants to the air, according to a study released last year by the journal Atmospheric Environment. Those pollutants can harm the body's respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Drones, as they are reusable, also do not create the waste that fireworks do.

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Firework displays can create booms around 140 to 160 decibels, according to the Centers for Disease Control. That noise has been shown to disrupt neighboring wildlife and lead to a spike in lost pets.

But drone shows are not as affordable as fireworks with prices going upward of $500 to $1,000 per drone, according to provider Lumasky.

Where can I see a 4th of July drone light show in Arizona?

While drone shows are not as common as fireworks, there are some options to catch a display around the Phoenix area this Fourth of July weekend.

• Gilbert Fourth of July Celebration, July 4 - Event will feature live music, fireworks and a drone light show. Patrons are asked to arrive close to when the parking lot opens at 4 p.m. and parking costs $15 per car.
• Red, White & Biltmore, July 6 - The Arizona Biltmore will host Fourth of July festivities for those with a room reservation from July 4 to 7. Saturday night will feature a drone light show following a daytime pool party.

Helen Rummel covers higher education for The Arizona Republic. Reach her athrummel@azcentral.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @helenrummel.