Scottsdale invites everyone this Fourth of July to celebrate in a cool, safe environment – and to be vigilant in protecting our irreplaceable desert.
The Scottsdale 4th of July Celebration at WestWorld is shaping up to be the coolest family-friendly event of summer.
Indoor activities begin at 3 p.m. in the air-conditioned Tony Nelssen Equestrian Center. At 9 p.m., everyone’s invited to step outside to enjoy a patriotic fireworks show.
The WestWorld fireworks show will take place in a safe, controlled environment.
Fireworks restrictions in place
Although use of some consumer fireworks is permitted by state law in Scottsdale this holiday, their use in and near many sensitive desert areas remains illegal and violators are subject to substantial fines.
Use of fireworks is prohibited in Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve and Pinnacle Peak Park and all properties located within 1 mile of these fragile desert lands. The use of fireworks is also prohibited on all publically owned properties, which include but are not limited to, city buildings, city parking lots, city parks, public schools and city streets.
Violation of these restrictions is a civil offense punishable by citations and fines.
For more information on firework restrictions and a variety of safety tips, visit ScottsdaleAZ.gov, search “fireworks.”
Preserve closure
To reduce the threat of wildfire, Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve will close at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, July 4
All trailheads into the 30,580-acre preserve will have “closed” signs posted. Scottsdale police, staff and volunteer stewards will patrol the area to advise visitors about the closure and fire threat. Violating the closure is a misdemeanor punishable by up to four months in jail and a $750 fine.
The preserve will re-open at 4:52 a.m. on Wednesday, July 5.
Pinnacle Peak Park, 26802 N. 102nd Way, will be open on July 4 from 5 a.m. until 8 p.m. For more information about the park, contact park staff at 480-312-0990
For more information on the preserve, visit ScottsdaleAZ.gov, search “preserve.”
Cool holiday event options
There are several ways to celebrate and keep comfortable this Fourth of July in Scottsdale without playing with fireworks.
The WestWorld celebration includes a kids’ zone, pony rides, a petting zoo, BMX show, stunt dogs and a bull riding competition. The fireworks show begins at 9 p.m.
Advanced online tickets start at $6 for Scottsdale residents, $12 for non-residents. For more information, including VIP ticket pricing, visit: Scottsdale4th.com.
For those who enjoy a little water with their Fourth of July activities, Scottsdale’s four aquatic centers feature affordable public swims this holiday.
The Cactus, Chaparral, Eldorado and McDowell Mountain Ranch centers will all be open July 4 for public and lap swimming, plus use of the fitness center. Regular pool admission fees apply.
For more information on hours of operation and aquatic programs, call 480-312-POOL or visit ScottsdaleAZ.gov, search “aquatics.”
