Community effort reignites Fort Myers Beach July 4th fireworks display

FORT MYERS BEACH - Fort Myers Beach is gearing up to light up the sky this Fourth of July, thanks to local businesses and generous donations.

The town council had initially canceled the fireworks due to financial constraints, but the nonprofit What's Up FMB is stepping in to make sure the celebration goes on.

Karen Woodsen, vice president of What's Up FMB, said, "The number of people that come to the beach for the fireworks, I mean, it's it's what they need is what they want." She explained that the nonprofit is working with the town to handle the funding while the town manages the event logistics.

In just two weeks, they've raised over $78,000, with a goal of $129,000 by May 31. Rachel Peters from Fort Myers Beach said, "They're so important to this holiday. I mean, gosh, I just have so many good memories of going to see the fireworks with my family."

The town expressed gratitude for the donations, and beachgoers are thrilled.

Bill Boland said, "Glad to hear that the fireworks aren't being canceled on our 250th anniversary."

The barge for the fireworks show has also been donated, and an official announcement is expected soon.