The Suncoast’s premier sports facility and its leading TV station are coming together to celebrate Independence Day. Nathan Benderson Park’s annual July 3 tradition, NBP Fireworks On The Lake, returns with a social distancing twist. It’s the finale of WWSB ABC7’s Independence Day special, tentatively airing at 9 pm on Saturday, July 4, and anchored by ABC7 News’s Jacqueline Matter. The in-person fireworks celebration at the park will be a drive-in, social-distancing event. Fireworks will begin at 9 pm on July 3 at the park. 

Ticketed fireworks viewing areas are on the park’s Regatta Island, in the Green Lot next to the SCAT station on North Cattlemen Road, and on the park’s south end. Vehicles will be spaced to allow for social distancing, so parking in each lot will be limited. Tickets will be sold beginning June 24 at MySuncoast.com and NathanBendersonPark.org. This is the first time NBP Fireworks On The Lake has been televised. The fireworks show is a production of the park’s management, Suncoast Aquatic Nature Center Associates (SANCA). ABC 7 is producing the Independence Day television special.

“Listening to our residents who enjoy the annual NBP Fireworks On The Lake, we decided to proceed with this tradition to observe our nation’s independence,” said SANCA’s president and CEO, Stephen V. Rodriguez. “As safety is our No. 1 priority, this will be a very different event from previous years. NBP Fireworks On The Lake is for our community to enjoy, but we understand that not everyone is comfortable getting out and about yet. Therefore, our partnership with ABC7 is a great opportunity to bring fireworks into everyone’s homes. Whether you come to the park or watch from home, SANCA is here to provide entertainment for our residents.”

ABC7 Vice President and General Manager Jeff Benninghoff said "ABC7 is excited to partner with Nathan Benderson Park to showcase this holiday tradition on television, to allow everyone to enjoy the fireworks from the comfort of their homes." ABC7 News Director Jennifer Hardy said that "with all of the disruption caused by the pandemic, we're proud to provide the Suncoast with this special program to assure that those who can't come out can still enjoy the holiday celebration."

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