As Americans and as people in general, we love having options. What to eat, where to go on vacation, how to celebrate - having options and exercising them at our discretion is a significant part of why the 4th of July is a holiday in this country. We are also adaptable. The ability to take in new information, assess ever-changing factors and circumstances, chart a divergent course, make a tweak in behavior, or modify, amend, or even expand options as needed is something that we as a people have been able to do with aplomb.
When, as a society, we can adapt while also maintaining a healthy set of options, we land squarely in win/win territory, and that’s a great place to set up camp.
Fireworks are awesome. They are. The whole, “Ooooooooo, Ahhhhhhhhh, Woah!” response to a firework show is the dictionary definition of the word. Along with grilling, family, and friends, they are a remarkable aspect of a traditional 4th of July celebration. With that said, over the years, we have discovered that fireworks can have less than desirable effects on pets, wildlife, the landscape, and even people.
As many of us know, the same percussive explosions that produce excitement for many of us can extract anxiety or even terror from house pets. And in a more rural or wilderness setting, fireworks can have the same effect on wildlife. Segments of the human population can also have a tough time with fireworks, including people with post-traumatic stress disorder. As a Vietnam veteran's son, I can personally attest to the struggles that my father occasionally had with them. And unfortunately, they can cause fires when misused or under the wrong conditions.
With those factors in mind, the community of Cannon Beach is now affording revelers the option of a Firework-Free 4th of July. Cannon Beach is home to a thriving but delicate ecological system between the ocean, sea stacks, tidepools, and verdant coastal forest. Specifically, the birds that dwell on and around the iconic Haystack Rock, sea life, and the renowned herds of resident elk at Ecola State Park are impacted by a firework display. Beginning on the 4th of July 2021, Cannon Beach will become a haven for folks that want to come and celebrate Independence Day at the ocean. Bring your family, friends, and even pets if you like - grill, chill, take in a sunset, and enjoy a bonfire in the evening instead of a fireworks display.
So for those that choose to relish their 4th of July with the crescendo of a professional fireworks show, the state is still home to plenty of outstanding displays. But for folks that, for any number of reasons, prefer or would like to try a firework-free celebration of independence, there might be no finer choice than Cannon Beach. Thankfully, you’ve got options - something to remember when you celebrate the 4th of July, however you choose to enjoy it.
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Library Fundraiser - Annual Fourth of July Used Book Sale
July 1 - 4, 2022 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM at Cannon Beach Library
Great Puffin Watch
Other events will be listed as they are confirmed.
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