The Pagosa Springs Town Council voted last night, June 16, to cancel the planned July 4th fireworks display this summer, due to current drought conditions. The Town entered Stage 1 Fire Restrictions on June 6, but had been waiting to make a decision about the fireworks until the last possible minute.
That minute arrived last night, when the fireworks vendor — Acme Fireworks — informed the Council that additional charges would be accrued if the Town canceled closer to the July 4th date. No extra charges would be due, however, if the cancellation happened last night. Which it did.
That information was delivered by Tourism Director Jenny Green. The Tourism Board helps fund the annual show using revenues from the Town Lodging Tax.
The Town’s agreement with Acme Fireworks guarantees a rescheduled fireworks show later in the year, if the July 4th event is canceled. Such a delayed show has happened previously here in Pagosa, with the performance taking place on Halloween.
In response to increasingly dry conditions, elevated fire danger, and forecasts indicating continued warm and dry weather across southwest Colorado, the Town enacted Stage 1 Fire Restrictions on June 6, 2026. The restrictions were ordered by Town Manager David Harris pursuant to the Town’s emergency authority and following consultation with local fire and emergency management officials. The restrictions will remain in effect until further notice.
“Protecting our residents, visitors, businesses, and natural resources is our highest priority,” said Harris. “Current conditions and the forecasted weather patterns create an increased wildfire risk. These restrictions are a proactive measure to reduce the potential for human-caused fires within the Town of Pagosa Springs.”
The Council vote to cancel the July 4th show was unanimous. Voting for the first time was newly-appointed Council member Vahid Shabro, who was interviewed and installed a few minutes earlier.
Mr. Harris noted that the Town may impose Stage 2 Fire Restrictions in the near future.