PERU, Ind. – Mississinewa Reservoir will host its fireworks exhibition on Saturday, June 24 starting at dusk. This marks the second year for the show as a result of the tremendous success of the inaugural event in 2016. Support continued from private donations that make it possible to repeat in 2017.
“Guests can enjoy by land or lake,” said Jordan Epp, assistant property manager for Mississinewa Reservoir. Last year the lake was aglow with boat lights as hundreds of lake lovers enjoyed focusing on the sky and the spectacular show of fireworks.
Kathy Cade and her husband Mike were among those watching from the water. “It was so cool to be among so many boaters who also were enjoying the show from the water. We’re thrilled that they are planning it again this year,” said Cade, a life-long resident of Peru and frequent visitor to Mississinewa. Cade encourages anyone who didn’t attend last year’s event to plan on it this year.
Jerry McDaniel and his wife, Colleen, have a permanent camping site at Mississinewa. “We’ve enjoyed years of camping and boating at Mississinewa – not just Colleen and our family, but our employees, too. We’ve all benefitted from the tremendous asset this state park is to this community. The fireworks show is another great way for families to make lasting memories at Mississinewa. Last year’s show was amazing. The reflection of the fireworks on the water was spectacular! We’re so glad to see the program continue.”
On land, guests can set up lawn chairs and blankets to view the fireworks from the beach.
In addition to the fireworks show, The Mountain Dewe Boys, a county band, will perform live on the beach to kick off the celebration starting at 6:30 p.m.
The gate will open at 5 p.m. and in lieu of gate fees, volunteers will be encouraging free-will donations. Donations also will be accepted on the beach and the boat ramps. “These donations are critical to continuing this event,” added Epp. “We’ve had an outpouring of generosity for sponsors so far, but we’ll still need to rely on donations that night.” Like the McDaniels’ and the Cades, the hope is that the event continues.
Guests should plan to arrive early because parking will be limited. Bring lawn chairs, blankets and bug spray! Campers are encouraged to walk from their campsites to the beach because of the parking limitations.
Miami County EMA will assist with directing traffic. Extra security will be in place from Miami County Sheriff’s department and conservation officers prior to and during the event to ensure patron safety. A unit from the emergency medical service will also be on hand during the event. To expedite traffic exiting at the conclusion of the fireworks show, both lanes of traffic will be outbound.
For more information, contact Jordan Epp at (765) 473-6528. Alcohol is prohibited on the beach. Private fireworks also are prohibited on the property.