Eagles Host Largest Winter Fireworks Show
Jan 8, 2020
At a typical Eagles game, you can expect fireworks on the ice with goals, big hits and fantastic saves. On Friday, January 10th you can expect to see fireworks both on and off the ice as the Eagles host the annual fireworks game. Post-game winter fireworks have become a tradition following a Colorado Eagles game in early January and this year is no exception.
Everyone has childhood memories of eating hotdogs and watching fireworks on the Fourth of July with family and friends. Not too many people have the memory of wintertime fireworks, which was a goal of ours when Gavin Riches, Colorado Eagles Assistant General Manager, came up with the idea. “With our mission of providing family affordable entertainment to Northern Colorado we started thinking outside the box and what we could add to one of our games to make it an even better experience. From there, the idea quickly grew as we looked into the possibility of putting on this added event. During our research, one of the things that surprised us is that wintertime fireworks are becoming more and more popular as the sky is dark because the sun sets in the early evening. “
Firework pros, like Larry Darrington, will tell you there is no question that fireworks displays are better in the winter. “Winter shows are unique in 2 ways. 1. Cold winter air is denser so sound travels through the air quicker and has a very distinct sound and 2. With frost, ice and snow around the fireworks, light has more to reflect off, especially if it’s actively snowing.”
These aren’t your typical back yard fireworks. Being one of the largest wintertime fireworks shows in Northern Colorado takes some serious planning and firepower, way out of the expertise of the Eagles. That is why we rely on the professionals of Angel Light Pyrotechnics.
Our show uses over 300 pounds of explosives, with over 250 fireworks shooting upwards of 800 feet in the air. With that sort of magnitude, an order is placed by Angel Light Pyrotechnics almost a year in advance. Around that same time, Darrington, begins the process of coordinating the local airport to shut down air traffic during the show. Set-up for the show begins at 9am and will continue until the final preparations are made in the early afternoon with certification by the fire marshal.
“This is the largest winter show we perform. Planning starts one year and three weeks before the show. That's right, we started planning 2021's show weeks ago and we haven't shot this year’s show yet. Setting up our gun racks takes all day and then our hard work goes up in smoke. This is where the ancient art of fireworks meets modern computer technology and they work very well together. Remember, big fireworks need a big safety area so stay clear. You will feel the power. Don't tell your mom, but we are about ready to play with FIRE!”
Ten minutes after the fireworks on the ice conclude, fans eagerly make their way out way out of the Budweiser Events Center to see the fireworks spectacle in the sky. Then a lucky person gets to push the big red button to start the show.
