FAQ

See you again July 4, 2024
263 N. Center Street
Downtown Mesa
6 – 10 p.m.
Fireworks at approximately 9:30 p.m.

2023 Event Map


What items am I allowed to bring into the event? ALL BAGS & PERSONS ARE SUBJECT TO SEARCH
NOTE:  All personal items will be checked and tagged upon entry.
Those without any items will be able to go through the Express Lanes at entry.

WATER BOTTLES!  Bring an EMPTY water bottle to stay hydrated all night.  There are water fountains inside the Convention Center and there will be a water bottle refilling station provided courtesy of Mesa Water Resources.

Bags, purses, backpacks

Coolers with maximum measurement of 26” long x 16” wide x 16” high 

Non-alcoholic beverages in sealed containers. No open containers with beverages will be allowed.

Portable chairs

Blankets

Food

Only service animals are allowed in the event
Help us help you keep your child safe! Be sure to take a wristband, provided at all event entrances and information booths, to put on your child with your name and phone number listed.  If a child becomes separated from you, this will greatly help us in reconnecting you with your child!

Can I bring a cooler into the event?
Coolers with maximum measurement of 26” long x 16” wide x 16” high are permitted.  Alcoholic beverages or containers with liquid MAY NOT be brought into the event.  All items will be searched and tagged upon entry. Empty containers/water bottles can be filled with water inside the Convention Center and at the Mesa Water Bar at no cost.

Can I bring my bag or backpack?
Small bags and backpacks are permitted. All personal items will be searched at entry.

Can I bring my pet?
Only service animals are permitted on the event site.  We ask that service animals are appropriately equipped to withstand walking on hot concrete and do not have an issue with loud noises (from fireworks or black-powder guns during a reenactment).

How much do entry and activities cost?
Entrance into the event and activities are FREE.  Only food, drinks, and merchandise from vendors will have an associated cost.

Are there ways to cool off during the event?
So many ways! Enjoy indoor activities, misting fans throughout the event, water slides and spray truck.

Why do the water slides shut down early?
The lines to the slides in the Celebration Splash zone are cut off at approximately 8:45 p.m. and the slides are deflated at 9:15 p.m. The slides are brought down because numerous families live along Center Street behind those slides and have requested that they be able to enjoy the fireworks with their family and friends from their front yards.

What time are the fireworks?
The fireworks are scheduled to go off at approximately 9:30 p.m. They are set off after the Salute to America program that is held on Stage America.

In what direction do I look to see the fireworks?
The fireworks will be set off east of the event.  You will want to watch the sky over the Mesa Amphitheatre to see the fireworks.

Will there be food and drinks available for purchase?
Yes, food and beverage vendors will be on location. There are several beer stands throughout the event near Stage America / Tailgate Zone and the food court. All patrons must show proper ID to receive a wristband prior to purchase.  Alcoholic beverages MAY NOT leave the event. 

Is there seating available?
There is some seating around Stage America, as well as tables for dining in the food court area. There are also several grassy areas where attendees can sit.  You may bring portable chairs to the event, but attendees are asked to refrain from reserving lawn areas for fireworks viewing.

If I leave, can I come back into the event?
Yes, attendees may leave and return at any time.  However, NO ALCOHOL can leave or enter the event.

Can I bring my own products to sell or promote?
Unauthorized vending and solicitation are prohibited throughout the event site.

Is there a wheelchair or stroller rental?
No, there are not any rental items.

Is smoking/vaping allowed?
No. Per Mesa City Code 6-11-4 “No person shall smoke in any public place when the public gathers together for any purpose or event.” This includes vaping.

What items will I be prohibited from bringing into the festival?

NO Outside alcohol

NO containers/unsealed water bottles with liquid (empty items can be brought in and filled inside the event).

NO Smoking or vaping

NO Contraband or illegal substances

NO Firearms /Weapons of any kind

NO Fireworks/Sparklers/Firecrackers

NO Laser Pointers

NO Motorized carts or scooters (unless ADA approved)

NO Clothing with gang signs / symbols OR of particular colors worn in combination with known gang signs or symbols

NO Unauthorized/unlicensed vendors

NO bicycle riding within the event area

NO Pop-up tents or canopies