Bass Lake ditching fireworks for laser show this Fourth of July

BASS LAKE, Calif. (KFSN) -- The Fourth of July is just a few days away, and many lake communities are gearing up for visitors. However, at Bass Lake this year, there will be no fireworks for the first time in decades.

The weather is warming up and so are the number of people heading to Bass Lake for the Fourth of July.

"It's an exciting weekend. We look forward to it. It culminates our season," said Leslie Cox, co-owner of the Fork's Resort and a member of the chamber. "We have traditionally had one of the best firework shows in the entire state of California, and it's a tradition here at Bass Lake."

This year, leaders decided to make a major change to a 75-plus-year tradition of fireworks and opt for a laser show instead.

"It's going to be lasers. It's going to be music that's choreographed to the light. We even have some firework sound effects," said Cox.

Visitors Action News spoke with say they support the change.

"I was actually rather pleased because of the fire damage we have had up here and the fear of that," said Marian Wyatt. "So I'm excited to see something different. A laser show will be great."

That won't be the only change Bass Lake visitors will see this year due to the drought and dry conditions. Charcoal BBQs in day-use areas will not be allowed; visitors will only be able to use propane BBQs.

"We need to protect the forest... We need to keep people safe. This is part of the measures we take to do that. We still want people to come and have a great time," said Michelle Feuerstein with the Sierra National Forest.

Forest officials also want to remind people that fireworks will not be allowed anywhere at Bass Lake and those who bring them or use charcoal BBQs could be fined.

Even with the changes, businesses and leaders say they're looking forward to a safe and fun Fourth of July. The Fourth of July festivities are this Saturday. The annual boat parade is at 7 p.m., and the laser show will light up the lake at 9:15 p.m.