Fireworks Displays (fit in, condo, parking)

[kskutie76]

Has anyone been to the WGV display in the past? I'm thinking of taking my kids, but want to make sure it won't be a dud. Opinions?

[mawipafl]

We were there last year and it was an enjoyable time. It's of course not as huge a display as downtown Jax, but it was well-done. The crowd was large with lots of kids, so that's a testament that families find it a great way to celebrate the 4th.

We brought a picnic as did many others. You'll want to bring a blanket or bag chairs to stake your claim on the grass.

[kskutie76]

Thanks, Mawipafl!

[cricketfan]

Did anyone else watch the Jax fireworks display on TV on Sat? 15 minutes from start to finish. It was telecast behind buildings and the sponsors' logos covered up the entire fireworks. Awful coverage. Should've gone to the Landing.

[EricBoyd]

My family and I were walking up to The Strand, right as they were beginning. Honestly, I expected a longer show, closer to 30 minutes. 15 minutes seemed too short, to me. Also, this is the FIRST time I've been to the Southbank since all those condo's have been built (shame on me, I know). I remember when there was nothing dirt parking along that little stretch. I couldn't help but think, "If these condo's weren't here, I'd have a much better view of things." Haha! Next time, we'll get there sooner, so we can get a better view.

[apanda]

I agree Eric, my friends and I were on the Northbank sitting on the rocks. I seem to remember, keep in mind it may be close to 7 years since I have been Downtown for the 4th showing, it being near 30 mins of fireworks. This year is was 15 minutes almost to the second haha

[mawipafl]

But you have to admit it was a great 15 minutes, right?? :-)

[BabyBoomers2]

We were at Metro Park for their fireworks display which was pretty darn good! We think it was the best one we'd ever seen. Although, for being a "free" 4th of July Show/Fireworks, we spent $55 on food, drink and parking! Went down by the boat docks (next to Metro Park) and found out that the docks area isn't really a Marina (where people pay to tie a boat up overnight), it was however a "FREE" docking area and is for a 72 hr stay. And, the restrooms are open 24-7 (nice). So, next year we will take our boat to the Show and watch the fireworks from it.......where we can take photos and video of the fireworks! Other than the real small digital cameras that can fit into pant's pocket, video and photo cameras weren't allowed in the Park.
Now, the REALLY BAD part of that night/after the fireworks display was over, was getting out of the parking long/narrow parking lot right next to the Park. Now, that was a NIGHTMARE!! That alone took us almost an hour to do! Then, once on the street and heading west (towards the Landing), the traffic was really backed up (and do mean REALLY)! Never again will we drive to a fireworks display there! But, then again, we have no reason to drive downtown anyway, other than for some BIG events at the Landing or taking our boat up there.