Author: Jade Cunningham

Published: July 4, 2025

GOODYEAR, Ariz. — The city of Goodyear will celebrate July 4 in a new and exciting way.

"I don't want to say too much," Dawn Stipe said. "There'll be lots of surprises."

Work was being done at Goodyear Ballpark Friday to set up for the city's annual "Star-Spangled 4th" event.

"We open the gates at 6 p.m.," Stipe said. "We just want people to come in and have a good time and celebrate with their families."

Stipe is the Arts and Culture Superintendent for the City of Goodyear. She said this year's celebration will include food, music, water slides and fun for all.

"Bring swimsuits for the kids," she said. "Parking is free, admission is free, activities are free. So, get there early to make sure you get in."

This year, though, the city is changing it up by launching drones instead of fireworks. Stipe said the conversation surrounding the switch-up began about a year ago. She adds that there were many reasons behind the decision.

"So, every year we've hosted here at the ballpark, and we've had a firework show," she said. "And as Goodyear has grown, there's less and less space to have the big boom and fireworks to the point where it might be a better option to use those drones and add a new fresh and magical experience for the community."

With music playing, 400 drones will light up the night sky to help create patriotic images that are sure to dazzle. Some may move, some may be 3-dimensional and others could offer something you've probably never seen before.

Stipe admitted it's different, but it'll still be a show to see.

"The drones are going to be a great to incorporate," she said. "I really love the feedback we've been getting for sustainability, PTSD, for dogs in the community, so there are a lot of positives to moving towards the drones. I hope it's a successful event and people enjoy what we have to offer."

As the final touches were put in place, there's hope this will be the start of something great, something officials say will surely create a night to remember.

Gates open at 6 p.m., the drone show will start at 8:45 p.m. Seating is offered throughout the entire stadium, including the outfield (so be sure to bring blankets). More information on what you can or can't bring can be found here.