The annual fireworks show over the Manatee River, generally celebrated on Independence Day, July 4, will be moved this year to Labor Day, Sept. 7.  The decision to move the date of the fireworks was made by Bradenton Mayor Wayne Poston and Palmetto Mayor Shirley Bryant, in consultation with Manatee County Administrator Cheri Coryea. The fireworks are set off over the Manatee River for spectators who gather on the Green Bridge and along the river on both sides. The show will launch at dark, which in early September will be around 8 pm. Mayor Poston allowed that moving the fireworks to Labor Day has a whole new meaning in light of the public health crisis.

“Having this event on Labor Day allows us not only to be more safe and confident from a public health standpoint, but it also allows us to properly honor those whose labor kept us going through the COVID-19 crisis,” Poston said. “First responders, law enforcement, health-care worker and grocery store workers, for example – so many people kept on working through this crisis, and we are all grateful. This fireworks celebration is to honor them.”

Palmetto Mayor Shirley Groover Bryant echoed Mayor Poston. “We look forward to celebrating all our red, white and blue collar workers this Labor Day, including the first responders, health care workers and business owners that have helped to sustain us during these unprecedented times,” Groover Bryant said.

"The annual fireworks display with our city partners is one of the most popular events for Manatee County residents on the 4th of July," Coryea said. "We appreciate everyone understanding that the celebration has been postponed in the best interest of public health and safety."

More details will be announced as the event nears.