Jeudi

It’s easy to forget that New Orleans isn’t a sovereign nation. But, as police chief Ronal Serpas reminds us, we have the freedom to grill like anyone else within these American borders.

Wednesday marks the city’s 22nd annual “Go 4th on the River," the Independence Day celebration that brings a New Orleans twist to the standard BBQ and backyard firework show. Coordinator Debra Bresler told us a little bit more about what makes this year’s event extra special, including some explosive surprises from Pyrotecnico, the company that puts on Dueling Barges every year.

Bresler says a huge turnout is expected tomorrow.

READ: Bayou St. John Boat Parade to Float the 4th

“Before Katrina, we could have over 150,000. We’ve noticed in the last couple of years, we’ve been getting back to our pre-Katrina numbers," she said. "People are really looking to New Orleans as a place to come for Independence Day.”

Bresler said that this year’s Dueling Barges also promises to draw a big crowd.

“We have new nautical fireworks, they’re really beautiful,” Bresler said.

The event is partnering with Operation We Care, an organization created to ensure that American troops receive care packages from friends and family. They accept requested items as well as monetary donations to cover postage costs, and currently only have enough funding for 100 of the 500 registered recipients.

Bresler is optimistic about the fundraising aspect of the event. “Our hope is that we can send 500 soldiers their boxes,” Bresler said. Those who wish to donate can visit Operation We Care's website.

In addition to the usual downtown amenities, musicians will be posted up all over the Quarter reminding event goers of what makes New Orleans one of America’s best cities. 

Starting at noon on the Riverfront, you can see The Navy Band New Orleans, The Brass Band at the Steamboat Natchez Dock, and The Brass Quintet at the Riverwalk Marketplace. You can catch the Ceremonial Band at Washington Artillery Park, (across from Jackson Square) along with the WWII Museum’s own Victory Belles as well as Amanda Shaw and the Cute Guys.

After enjoying your freedom to shop, eat, and dance the day away, end the night with a bang. The Dueling Barges Fireworks Display will begin at 9pm and has been rated one of the top five must-see fireworks displays in the U.S. by the American Pyrotechnics Association.

We talked to Rocco Vitale of Pyrotecnico about what makes the barges such a blast.

“This year, we’ll be using nautical effects so that the fireworks break and explode on the water,” Vitale said. “They kind of dance on the water, it’s an interesting effect.”

Vitale says that Pyrotecnico has the event down to a science. After all, they have been in business since 1889.

“It takes about three days to assemble both barges and properly wire everything,” Vitale said.

The barges are positioned strategically on the Mighty Mississippi, so as to allow prime viewing from both banks. In addition to the French Quarter riverfront, NoDef has found prime viewing spots on the Algiers Point levee and in the 9th Ward.

Limits of Freedom

On the eve of the 4th, it was law enforcers' job to remind everyone about potential dangers lurking around every fun corner. Serpas and NOFD Chief Charles Parent held a press conference in the Quarter to remind freedom lovers that this Independence Day isn’t all fun and games. 

Serpas reminded second amendment enthusiasts that opening fire is not an appropriate way to celebrate their right to bear arms.

“If you see someone firing a gun into the air, and you know who they are, consider calling Crimestoppers to anonymously let us know who they are,” Serpas advised.

Fire Department Chief Charles Parent spoke after Serpas to warn all the pyromaniacs and reckless grillers.

“It is illegal to purchase, sell, or explode fireworks in Orleans Parish,” Parent said.

He also warned parents that, “kids from 5-14 years old are twice as likely to get injured from fireworks than anyone else.”

The Fire Chief also gave a quick spiel about how to barbeque safely. Parent asks that people check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line, make sure the propane tank isn’t overfilled, and to keep flammables away from the kids, among other tips. After Parent grilled the press about safety, Serpas joked about his own past indiscretions.

“Now that I’ve heard those lessons about barbeque safety I realize I’ve been doing it wrong for the last ten years,” Serpas said.

Parent playfully said that he would come inspect Serpas’ grill in the near future.