Missoula's Fourth of July Gets a High-Tech Upgrade with 3D Drone Show

Quick Answer: What's Happening July 3rd & 4th in Missoula

 

Missoula's Fourth of July weekend is getting a futuristic upgrade.

 

After the City Council restricted back-to-back fireworks displays, the Missoula PaddleHeads have pivoted to a high-tech alternative for Friday night.

 

Here's the weekend lineup:

 

Friday, July 3rd:

 

- Professional 3D drone show after the PaddleHeads game at Ogren Park Allegiance Field

 

- Free community celebration at Silver Park featuring the Big Sky Mudflaps

 

Saturday, July 4th:

 

- Traditional fireworks display following the evening game

 

- America's 250th birthday celebration continues

 

Why the Change? City Council Concerns

 

The Missoula City Council voted last week to restrict fireworks displays, citing concerns about the impact on pets, veterans suffering from PTSD, and residents sensitive to loud noises.

 

Some council members worried about having fireworks on both Friday and Saturday nights, pushing for a more mindful approach to the holiday weekend celebrations.

 

While the PaddleHeads' lease for Ogren Park does allow fireworks displays, the organization chose to collaborate with the Mayor's Office on an alternative plan that addresses community concerns while still delivering spectacular entertainment.

 

The 3D Drone Show: What to Expect

 

Big Sky Droneworks, a professional drone entertainment company, will light up the sky above Ogren Park with a patriotic 3D drone display on Friday night.

 

These high-tech shows use hundreds of synchronized drones equipped with LED lights to create elaborate formations, images, and animations in the night sky.

 

Unlike traditional fireworks, drone shows are nearly silent, eliminating the noise that troubles pets and veterans while still providing a visually stunning experience.

 

The show will follow the July 3rd game, giving families a unique way to kick off the holiday weekend.

 

Silver Park Community Celebration

 

The free community celebration at Silver Park is still happening Friday evening as originally planned.

 

The Big Sky Mudflaps will perform, bringing their unique blend of music and entertainment to the park.

 

This family-friendly event offers a great alternative for those who want to enjoy the holiday atmosphere without attending the baseball game.

 

Best for: Families looking for free outdoor entertainment and live music.

 

Traditional Fireworks on July 4th

 

For those who love the classic Fourth of July experience, the traditional fireworks display is still happening on Saturday, July 4th.

 

The fireworks will follow the evening game at Ogren Park Allegiance Field, preserving the beloved tradition that Missoula residents have enjoyed for years.

 

This gives families options: the innovative drone show on Friday or the classic fireworks on Saturday, or both for those who want the full weekend experience.

 

A Safer Celebration for the Community

 

PaddleHeads President Matt Ellis emphasized that the revised lineup aims to celebrate the holiday safely while discouraging illegal fireworks use in local neighborhoods.

 

"The Show will go on," Ellis said. "After the City Council's decision not to allow fireworks on two adjacent nights, we rolled up our sleeves and worked with the Mayor's Office on an alternative."

 

He thanked Big Sky Droneworks for working on short notice to help find a solution that balances entertainment with community concerns.

 

The weekend celebration is designed to honor America's 250th birthday while being mindful of all Missoula residents.

 

Local Event Resources

 

Ogren Park Allegiance Field

 

Address: 700 Cregg Lane, Missoula, MT

 

Home of the Missoula Paddleheads baseball team.

 

Tickets available at gopaddleheads.com

 

Silver Park

 

Address: 3300 Lolo Street, Missoula, MT

 

Free community celebration on July 3rd evening.

 

Big Sky Droneworks

 

Professional drone entertainment company providing the 3D light show.

 

FAQ

 

Q: Why isn't there fireworks on both nights?

 

A: The Missoula City Council voted to restrict back-to-back fireworks displays due to concerns about noise impacts on pets, veterans with PTSD, and noise-sensitive residents.

 

Q: What time does the drone show start?

 

A: The 3D drone show will take place immediately following the PaddleHeads game on Friday, July 3rd. Check gopaddleheads.com for exact game time.

 

Q: Do I need tickets to see the drone show?

 

A: The drone show follows the baseball game at Ogren Park, so game admission is required to view it from inside the stadium. However, drone shows are sometimes visible from outside the venue depending on viewing angles.

 

Q: Is the Silver Park celebration free?

 

A: Yes, the community celebration at Silver Park featuring the Big Sky Mudflaps is free and open to the public.

 

Q: Will there still be fireworks on the Fourth of July?

 

A: Yes, the traditional fireworks display will happen on Saturday, July 4th following the evening game at Ogren Park.

 

Q: Are drones really quieter than fireworks?

 

A: Yes, drone light shows are nearly silent compared to explosive fireworks, making them ideal for noise-sensitive environments while still providing visual entertainment.

 

Looking for more summer events in Missoula? Check out our guide to outdoor activities in Missoula and family-friendly events this summer for more ways to enjoy the season.