MISSOULA — A popular summertime Missoula event will be taking place but there will be some changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Southgate Mall has held a 4th of July fireworks show for 35 years -- and will do so once again this year. However, this year the Southgate Mall parking lot will be closed to the public after 6:00 p.m. on July 4 and guests will not be permitted to view the fireworks on the mall premisses.
The fireworks display will begin at 10:30 p.m. on July 4, along with choreographed music.
“Our team has worked closely with Missoula City-County Health, City Fire, and City Police Departments to determine the best way to keep our guests safe and healthy, while still continuing the decades-long tradition that is our fireworks show,” said Tim Winger, Southgate Mall General Manager.
“In the end we felt it was the best decision to continue with the fireworks display, which can be seen from throughout the valley. This year we are asking people to watch the fireworks from home instead of from our parking lot," he added.
People are being asked to keep all roads and pathways clear, respect local businesses, and practice social distancing if watching from any public location on the 4th of July.
The mall will also be open on July 4 from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
