Image Credit: Nolan Deck, Unofficial Networks

Independence Day in the US is one of the largest shows of visual spectacle around a holiday. Crowds gather at town squares across the country, taking in the myriad of unique showcases of entertainment, including live music, parades and more. Alongside these celebratory activities is the main attraction: A fireworks show, organized by cities to be a dazzling display of pyrotechnical orchestration. In more recent years, however, conversations have started to crop up about their place in these celebrations, citing a multitude of concerns from local residents and attendees. As a result, some organizers have opted for a more conscious approach, used as either a supplement or a replacement: Drone shows.

Fireworks have been a time-honored attraction for people throughout the ages, dating back thousands of years. As these displays have evolved to become more complex, safety measures have improved to ensure trained professionals are managing the operations, as well as planning for accident response measures. Still, fireworks carry with them an inherent risk that's hard to entirely mitigate: At Brigham Young University's celebration this year, multiple injuries resulted from a fireworks malfunction. Some cities have cancelled their fireworks shows in recent years, not only due to the ever-present risk of fires, but also because of the significant logistical demand fireworks require. There are also environmental and health concerns associated with fireworks, with fireworks resulting in 1.5 to 10 times the amount of fine particulate pollution commonly present in the atmosphere. Finally, for some, the noise of fireworks are a nuisance, as they cause personal disturbances, like agitated pets or personal triggers.

The record-breaking Fourth of July drone show over Dallas, TX in 2023

Drones present a lot of advantages that directly counter these particular concerns. Logistically, while regulations still need to be followed and safety measures taken, the organizational aspects are greatly reduced in complexity. Drone show architects map out and test the run of show using animation software, ensuring drones are coordinated and functioning correctly ahead of time. Despite their complex nature, drone shows only require a single pilot or computerized ground control system, presenting a lower risk and personnel need. Professional drone operators can also automate maintenance schedules for fleets, ensuring each drone is functioning correctly. Additionally, even in incidents where drone mishaps have occurred, they typically don't result in any injuries or serious damage. And without any pyrotechnical elements, there's no concern over erratic chemical reactions that can cause injury or start fires.

For some, fireworks represent a classic experience that can't be beaten or replicated, something integral to the experience. But as technology advances, so too does the potential for experience. Drone shows are emblematic of a novel, unique showcase of technological capability, something not possible or feasible until the past decade or so. Given the extensive heritage of fireworks shows, drone shows potentially represent the first alternative equivalent in literally thousands of years. As drones continue to advance in their capabilities, who knows how drone shows could continue to transform going forward?