Patriotic Scout toting a flag near Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach
Fireworks typically highlight most 4th of July celebrations. But in Cannon Beach, new traditions are replacing sparklers in the front yard or rockets launched over the ocean.
That is because the Cannon Beach city council voted in 2020 to make the town Fire-Works Free. It’s proven to be a well-embraced decision
The restriction was prompted by a growing public concern about the well-being of local wildlife and fire danger.
A Delicate Ecosystem
Cannon Beach exists in the heart of a delicate and well-loved ecosystem. The special natural environment is treasured. The community lies along the magnificent ocean surrounded by pristine tidepools and soaring seabirds. Adjacent to the beach stand coastal forests filled with herds of local elk. All that wonder of the natural world can be easily disrupted by booming noise and flashing fireworks. And, impacted by inevitable trash that lingers long after firework displays are forgotten.
Wildlife cannot understand the commotion, and neither can your pets. As pet owners will tell you, dogs find the popping sounds frightening, causing them to shudder in fear. Distressed cats often run away to hide.
Even people that appreciate the traditional role of fireworks find them unsettling. People on the autism spectrum or adults who deal with PTSD struggle with the noise of traditional Independence Day celebrations.
So instead of lighting up the night sky, residents and guests of Cannon Beach have begun incorporating the tradition of building a Fourth of July bonfire on the sand. Controlled and safe, evening bonfires dot the shoreline supplying a distinctive holiday glow.
For your Cannon Beach Independence Day celebration, you can grill with family and friends. Watch a beautiful sunset and plant a flag. And of course, you can bring your dog to the beach party to celebrate.
And when you enjoy a Fireworks-Free Independence Day in Cannon Beach, you know that the local magic will remain here for years to come.
