Hansen Dam to Hold Fourth of July Party

Planners of Independence Day festivities at Hansen Dam said an adjustment to the annual fireworks presentation will make the show more visible.

For the past three years, fireworks were launched from gravel pits at the base of the dam. This year, fireworks will be launched from atop the structure, said Dennis O’Sullivan, president of the Sun Valley Chamber of Commerce, one of seven northeast Valley chambers and homeowners groups sponsoring the event.

The new placement will allow viewers on both sides of the dam to experience the full impact of the 25-minute display, he said.

Planners also moved annual July 4 musical performances from the Hansen Dam Sports Center Ampitheater to Hansen Dam Park on Osborne Street.

O’Sullivan said the changes reflect an effort to capture the spirit of enthusiastic Independence Day celebrations held there decades ago. “It’s geared to the family,” he said.

Festivities begin July 2 with a carnival that runs through July 5 at Hansen Dam Park. Admission is free, with individual ride passes sold separately. A coupon good for a $10 all-day ride pass is available at various northeast Valley supermarkets and chambers of commerce, planners said.

From noon to 7 p.m. on Independence Day, singing and dance groups of local students will perform at Hansen Dam Park. The World Vision Youth Ambassadors singing group--50 young people from 50 countries--will kick off an evening musical program at 7 p.m. followed by the Los Angeles Police Department’s concert band at 8. The fireworks start at 9 p.m. For information, call (818) 361-1184.