Every year, people across Central Ohio look forward to one of the biggest nights of the summer Red White and Boom! This year, the excitement is just as strong, and the city is gearing up for a huge crowd on Thursday night. If you’re heading downtown for the fireworks, here’s what to expect and how to stay safe while having a great time.
Crowds Will Be Big, So Will Security
With more than 400,000 people expected downtown, it’s going to be packed. That also means there will be plenty of police officers around — both in uniform and undercover keeping an eye on things. Officers from the Columbus Police Department will be on the ground making sure everyone is safe and following the rules.
If you’re planning to be out on the water, expect to see the Franklin County Sheriff’s Dive Team. They’ll be watching boaters and making sure nobody is drinking and driving a boat. It might be tempting to crack open a cold one on the water, but it’s not worth the risk. Safety is the top priority this year, just like every year.
Fireworks Safety Checks Are Already Done
Earlier this week, local news crews caught a behind-the-scenes look at the fireworks setup. Columbus firefighters were at the staging site checking everything from the fireworks shells to the racks that hold them. If something didn’t look right, the whole process stopped until it was fixed.
“These guys know what they’re doing,” said one crew member. “If something is off, they take it seriously. No one wants an accident on a night like this.”
So when those fireworks go off, you can watch them knowing that everything was double-checked for safety.
What You Can Bring – And What You Can’t
You’re allowed to bring coolers, which is great for snacks and drinks. But there’s a list of items you can’t bring with you, so double-check before you leave the house:
- No alcohol
- No gas or charcoal grills
- No temporary pools
- No large furniture
- No generators
Basically, keep it simple. Bring some water, snacks, a blanket or small chair, and leave the rest behind.
Red White and Boom: A Drone Show
This year’s Red, White & Boom! is going to kick off with something totally new a drone light show. For the first time ever, more than 200 drones will take to the sky to open the event. They’ll fly in patterns and shapes before the fireworks begin.
“We’ve never tried this before in Columbus,” said one of the event organizers. “We’re excited to see how the crowd reacts. It should be pretty special.”
Already Thinking About Next Year
Even though this year’s event is just about to happen, the team behind Red, White & Boom! is already looking ahead. That’s because next year is a huge milestone — America’s 250th birthday. Organizers are starting to brainstorm how to make the 2026 event even more memorable.
“We want to do something extra big next year,” one planner shared. “It’s not every day you get to celebrate 250 years.”
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Tips for a Smooth and Safe Night
If this is your first time going to Red, White & Boom!, here are a few tips from locals:
- Get there early. The best spots fill up fast.
- Pack light. Bring what you need, but don’t overdo it.
- Dress for the weather. It’s July in Ohio — it could be hot or humid.
- Charge your phone. With so many people around, it’s easy to lose track of friends.
- Be patient. Leaving after the show will take some time. Just go with the flow.
Enjoy Red, White & Boom! in Columbus
Whether you’re going for the first time or you’ve been coming for years, Red, White & Boom! is a true summer tradition in Columbus. Between the fireworks, the new drone show, and the energy of a crowd that big, it’s a night you won’t forget.
Be safe, follow the rules, and soak up the celebration — because nights like these don’t come around often. And who knows? Maybe next year’s 250th birthday for America will be even bigger.