July 4, 2020 7:30 a.m.

Roseburg will still have a Fourth of July fireworks show Saturday night but many elements are different this year.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, there will be no special event to go with the show. The fireworks most recently had been shot off from the Douglas County Fairgrounds with live music, food trucks and other activities taking place. Prior to that, fireworks were put in the sky from Roseburg’s Stewart Park, with live bands playing earlier in the evening.

Roseburg Hometown Fourth of July Fireworks committee president Rob Thomas said their plan changed several times. Ultimately a location was found on the top of Reservoir Hill, north of downtown Roseburg. Thomas said there is a flat area on the west side of the hill which should be perfect for launching fireworks. He said the location gives no place for spectators to gather in groups nearby, but the elevation also means fireworks can be shot higher and will be visible over a wider area of Roseburg and surrounding areas.

The property is owned by the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians, one of the sponsors of the event.

Thomas said the fireworks provider the committee works with, normally is involved in close to 250 fireworks shows for July 4th around the pacific northwest. He said this year, only around ten percent of those shows are still happening. Thomas said Roseburg is very fortunate to still be able to have a fireworks’ show. Those who want to help with the cost, can still make contributions. Go to the committee’s Facebook page for more information.

Thomas said this year’s show will be a littler shorter, at approximately 16 minutes, but will be “more intense”. A patriotic soundtrack to accompany the fireworks will be broadcast on News Radio 1240 KQEN and Best Country 103. Fireworks are expected to hit the sky at 10:00 p.m.