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Fireworks in QC: When you can set them off or catch a display

Fireworks season is near as July 4 approaches, so we're keeping track of when and where fireworks shows are and if they're legal where you live.

MOLINE, Ill. — As the Fourth of July approaches, Quad Citizens will be seeing firework shows getting geared up, firework stands showing their wares and warnings about firework safety.

We're compiling information about fireworks in the area here, from when and where shows are, how you can stay safe and when you're allowed to use them at home if they're legal in your hometown.

Firework displays

Many Quad Cities communities put on official displays during the weekends surrounding July 4 for everyone to get their fix of holiday fireworks.

Don't see an event on the list? Let us know by sending us a message on Facebook or through our "Contact Us" pageand we'll add it to the list.

Fireworks on the Riverfront - East Moline

  • Fireworks begin at dusk July 3 at River Bend Park.
  • Catch the July 4th parade between 3rd and 13th streets more details here.

Red, White & Boom

Bettendorf 4th of July

Muscatine 4th of July

Thrill on the Hill Fireworks Show - Geneseo

  • Fireworks begin at dusk July 2 at Richmond Hill Park.

Big Bang Boom - Galesburg

  • Fireworks begin at 9:00 p.m. July 4 at Lake Story Park.


Home Firework hours


In Iowa, consumer fireworks can legally be set off between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. on July 4 and the weekends immediately proceeding and following. However, city ordinances take precedence and can limit these hours or use entirely. According to Iowa Code, violating these hours means committing a simple misdemeanor and can result in hefty fines. 

Check your local government's website to search for local fireworks times.

  • Davenport – 5-10 p.m. July 3-4.
  • Bettendorf – 2-11 p.m. July 3-4.
  • Muscatine – 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. July 3-4.

Fireworks are illegal to possess or use in Illinois unless a permit is issued for a professional firework display.

Firework safety tips

  • Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
  • Avoid buying fireworks packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and could pose a danger to consumers.
  • Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don't realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees - hot enough to melt some metals.
  • Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
  • Never try to relight or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
  • Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
  • Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishaps.
  • Light fireworks one at a time and move back quickly.
  • Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
  • After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.
  • Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.

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