It’s The Final Year For Fireworks At Thompson Park In Laurel

The 4th of July Celebration in Laurel, MT, will be much different in 2026. According to a 5/12/25 post from the Laurel Volunteer Fire Department, the "Biggest Fireworks Display in the state" will be changing locations after this year, and they are looking for a new home instead of Thompson Park.

The LVFD is central to the fireworks display, with the Laurel Fireman's Association raising funds throughout the year and the fire department executing the launch of the spectacular pyrotechnics show. In their post, the department explained why the show will be leaving Thompson Park.

Why are the fireworks moving next year?

Graff Elementary School currently sits on the southeast corner of Thompson Park. Graff is being demolished after the school year wraps up, and the grass field next to the school will be turned into a turf soccer practice field.

This spot is traditionally where the fireworks are launched, and commercial fireworks and turf do not mix. Therefore, the fire department is working with the City of Laurel and Laurel Public Schools to find a new location for 2026.

The show will go on.

No, the show is not being cancelled. Not this year, nor next. But it will be interesting to see where the Laurel Fireworks will move to in 2026. After so many years of great memories, it's hard to imagine the festivities happening anywhere except Thompson Park.

I'm a Laurel resident, and my wife and I were discussing possible locations. None seem ideal, but we wondered if these places might work:

• South Pond
• South School
• Somewhere near Wood's Powr-Grip
• Laurel Airport
• Murray Heights Park
• Nutting Park

I feel like traffic and parking would be a nightmare (more than it is already) at any of those locations, especially Murray Heights and Nutting Park, which are both in very residential areas. South Pond would be neat, but there isn't much parking, and essentially just one street in and out.

The 4th of July celebration and fireworks will still be awesome no matter where they relocate for 2026, but it certainly won't be the same as Thompson Park. I'll see you there this year, with a hearty "Thank You!" to the Laurel Volunteer Fire Department for everything you do.