02/24/2026
Dear Citizens of Covington,
For the past 14 years, I have had the privilege of helping organize and financially support Covington's July 4th fireworks celebration through the nonprofit Friends of Covington Fireworks. What began as a community effort grew into one of the most anticipated Independence Day events in our region, made possible by the generosity of local businesses. private donors, volunteers, and families who believed in celebrating our nation together.
First and foremost want to sincerely thank every supporter who contributed over the years. Your financial donations. encouragement, and community spirit helped make the Covington fireworks show a safe, memorable, and successful tradition for thousands of residents and visitors. Without you. this event would never have become what it was.
Until recently, the celebration was held successfully without any incident. Over the past two years. however. increasing behavioral issues involving unsupervised juveniles in the crowd have created safety concerns. While the City of Covington and NCSO increased its police presence last year, those measures did Stop problems immediately, though it did not fully resolve the situation.
At the city meeting last night, the City Council took a vote on whether to hold a July 4th fireworks celebration this year. The vote resulted in a tie. That tie was then broken by Mayor Fleeta Baggett, who cast the deciding vote NOT to hold fireworks at all.
During that meeting, it was mentioned that Friends of Covington Fireworks had withdrawn its support, which is true — but the reason matters. Our organization has always supported continuing the fireworks tradition in downtown Covington. We could not support relocating the event away from the historic square, where it has been most meaningful to the community and local businesses.
Let me be dear: Friends of Covington Fireworks was fully ready to support a wonderful July 4th celebration this year on the square. It was not a lack of funding or resources. It was solely at the discretion of the City Council and Mayor whether to support the event on the downtown square and celebrate the 250th birthday of this great country.
Friends of Covington Fireworks has not lost its commitment to this community or its willingness to raise funds and help organize a celebration. We remain ready to support a safe and well-managed Independence Day event in Covington.
Over the years, numerous local residents and business owners have told me they wished the event could return to its smaller, more intimate feel of a decade ago — when it was primarily a hometown gathering. I understand that sentiment. However, our community has changed dramatically. Covington has experienced rapid growth, with corporations moving in and the construction of townhomes, condominiums, and apartments throughout the city. With that growth comes a different demographic mix, increased traffic, and added strain on public safety resources. These realities do not happen by accident; they are the direct result of decisions made by our elected officials. Growth can be positive, but it must be managed wisely and responsibly. When smart growth planning does not keep pace with expansion, challenges like those we are now facing become inevitable.
Many communities face similar issues, yet continue to adapt and preserve important traditions rather than discontinue them. With 2026 marking the 250th anniversary of the United States, communities across the country are preparing to celebrate this historic milestone. It is extremely disappointing that Covington residents will not have the opportunity to gather for a local Independence Day fireworks celebration during such a significant year.
Again, I extend my deepest thanks to the donors, businesses, volunteers, and families who supported this event for more than a decade. Your generosity created something truly special for our community.
Sincerely,
Robert Foxworth, Chairman
Friends of Covington Fireworks, Inc.
