WATERBURY, Conn. (WTNH) — Post University and the City of Waterbury launched their New Year’s Day Fireworks from Holy Land USA Saturday evening. And News 8 was there to count it down.
The 25-minute fireworks show was displayed Saturday, Jan. 2 at 6 p.m. It was pushed from Friday due to the forecast. The company that launched the fireworks is Pyrotechnico. A representative told News 8 it was “a good call” to move the fireworks show.
Pyrotechnico is the same company that launches 4th of July fireworks from Holy Land USA every year.
On Thursday, they gave News 8 exclusive access behind the scenes as they started setting up for the big event. They blasted at least 1,500 to 2,000 shells non-stop.
The fireworks were choreographed to music.
“It’s gonna be really good,” said John Turgeon of Pyrotechnico. I mean, it’s really intense.”
The fireworks show was streamed on Post University’s website and in the YouTube video below.
And since they were launched from Holy Land, which towers above the city, the views were spectacular all over Waterbury.
Post University is footing the bill for the fireworks show as a gift to the city that’s been hit hard by COVID-19.
“A lot of Waterbury residents are just going to have the chance to pause for a good 20, 25 minutes,” said Bob Sembiante of Post University. “Just look up to the skies and just forget a little bit all of the awfulness and just celebrate what’s coming up next year.”
This year has also been rough for companies like Pyrotechnico. Because of the pandemic, one crew member told News 8 this show will be his first since the 4th of July.
Even though this is being done to lift spirits in the city, officials want to make sure everyone gets the message that there is still a virus wreaking havoc. Because of this, they did not allow for any large gatherings to view the fireworks.
“Most of our city residents will be able to view them (fireworks) from their neighborhoods,” said Mark Lombardo, Deputy Director of Waterbury’s Department of Public Works.
“Keep the group small, wear masks when you’re in your group, no congregating,” Sembiante said.
He also added a reminder to practice social distancing and also — don’t forget to do this:
“Enjoy the show,” he said.