07-05-2025
National Peanut Festival dispels rumors after canceling firework show
DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN) — The National Peanut Festival is dispelling rumors that began spreading after the cancellation of a popular fireworks show.
The Fireworks Celebration at the Fairgrounds is held every summer at the festival fairgrounds to celebrate the Fourth of July.
'Please know this decision was not made lightly or in haste,' said Director Tony Ellison in a release to WDHN.
According to Ellison, putting on the annual event costs around $15,000, an expense that the director says is 'difficult to justify.'
Ellison said in the release that it also takes the NPF crews around two full weeks to set up and manage the event, and they must rely on the Dothan Police Department, Dothan Fire Department, and the Houston County Sheriff's Office to ensure visitors' safety.
'This places a significant strain on local public safety resources during a time when these
agencies are also supporting other community celebrations,' said Ellison.
In the release, Ellison also dispelled rumors that had been circulating since it was announced the celebration was canceled.
'First and foremost, we want to firmly dispel two misconceptions. There has never been a single incident of violence at this event in the past. The Annual Fireworks at the Fairgrounds has consistently drawn respectful, family-friendly crowds and has fostered a great sense of community. Additionally, the decision to suspend the event was not made due to financial mismanagement or a lack of retained earnings by the Festival,' said Ellison.
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