Photos by Carol Barker Wyatt

As the sun sets on the first Saturday closest to the Fourth of July, residents and visitors of Lake Anna gather at Dyke 2 in anticipation for one of the most spectacular events in Central Virginia—the annual Lake Anna Fireworks Show. This event, a tradition cherished by many, is much more than a display of pyrotechnics; it’s a symbol of community spirit, dedication, and celebration. This year, the show will be even more impressive with the debut of 8-inch shells, promising an unforgettable spectacle.

This on-the-water light show is entirely funded by donations from community members and supporters. Greg Baker, President of the Lake Anna Civic Association (LACA), highlights the collective effort that goes into financing this grand event. “One hundred percent of the fireworks budget comes from donations,” he states, emphasizing that no funds from dues or water quality testing grants are used.

Donations can be made easily through the association’s website, lakeannavirginia.org, by clicking the green donate button in the corner.

Each year, LACA collaborates with Zembelly Fireworks to put on the show, booking them over a year in advance. The budget, typically around $35,000, is based on the amount of donations received. “We’ve consistently met our goal for the past several years, allowing us to put on a terrific show,” says Baker.

One of the most critical aspects of the event is deciding whether the weather conditions are suitable for the fireworks. “We make the call by noon on the day of the event,” Baker explains. If thunderstorms or showers are predicted, they must decide early to either proceed or postpone to the following Saturday.
The fireworks are launched from Dyke 2, chosen for its safety and visibility from both the public and private sides of the lake. “Few places allow public viewing by land, so Dyke 2 is an ideal location,” Baker mentions. On the night of the fireworks, the area is declared a no-wake zone, ensuring a calm and safe environment for hundreds of boats and spectators who gather to enjoy the show.

Safety is a top priority. Coordination with various safety committees, including police, tow boats, and emergency services, ensures that everyone enjoys the event without incidents. Attendees are reminded to check their boat lights, have fitting life jackets for all passengers, and appoint a designated driver who abstains from alcohol. “There are literally hundreds of boats out there,” Baker cautions, “and it’s essential everyone follows safety guidelines.”

Putting on such a grand display is no small feat. The setup involves volunteers working tirelessly throughout the day to prepare. From setting up rocket launchers to covering equipment with tarps, the effort is monumental. “It looks easy, but there’s a lot of work involved,” Baker admits. However, the joy and excitement of the event make it all worthwhile. Reflecting on the event’s significance, he shares, “My daughter is 27 now, and I remember taking her to the fireworks when she was an infant. It’s one of the best fireworks shows in Central Virginia.”

This year, attendees are especially excited to witness the debut of the 8-inch shells, the largest ever used in the Lake Anna show. These shells, the size of volleyballs, will soar higher and create larger explosions, lighting up the night sky in a display that promises to be the most impressive yet.

Jen Bailey

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