A beautiful evening at the base of the Big Horn Mountains creates a spectacular setting for any event, especially a 4th of July fireworks show.  The Governor and First Lady Nancy were at the Big Horn Equestrian Center just outside Sheridan to celebrate our country’s birthday, and were treated to quite a pyrotechnics display. Although treated might not be quite accurate – they had to put in their time to earn their right to enjoy the festivities. Shortly after arriving, Governor Dave could be found wearing an apron and working a booth where participants could earn a chance to shoot off a firework.  He later could be found in the field pouring the mixture needed to create one of the fireworks to be used in the big show. 

And even the show itself, a half hour extravaganza set to music played over the local radio stations, was no time to kick back and relax – the Governor and Nancy were responsible for shooting off certain fireworks at a specified time in order to make sure the display went as planned.

Yet it’s unlikely that any amount of work could spoil an evening like this. Before the sun set, kids could be seen running around, throwing and kicking balls of all sorts while parents manned the grill and relaxed in lawn chairs. Booths were selling shave ice, fry bread and other foods while a celtic band played in the background.

Once the sun disappeared behind the mountains and the skies began to darken, fireworks could be seen streaking across the horizon in all directions, from the houses in the hills to the downtown Sheridan area miles in the distance. And the main show did not disappoint, as dazzling lights of all shapes and colors exploded to music ranging from Pirates of the Carribean to Chris Ledoux. Quite a marvelous way to celebrate our country’s heritage.