Western Pyro Enterprise lit up the sky with fireworks Friday night, thrilling hundreds of area residents who made the trek to the company’s warehouse east of Garland. The spring display, usually reserved for wholesale clients of the company, was opened up for folks going stir-crazy under state COVID-19 recommendations.

“We thought it would be a good idea for those in the community who are bored in their homes,” said Chris Good, co-owner of the company.

Those in attendance were asked to stay in their vehicles and observe social distancing during the 90-minute display of new fireworks available to consumers this year as well as a professional level finale.

The demonstration led off with a class-C display set to the national anthem, setting a patriotic tone for the evening. It was the only time during the event that those in attendance were asked to get out of their vehicles to stand at attention. After the tribute, some in attendance waved American flags, while others settled in their cars, in lawn chairs or in the beds of their trucks for the remainder of the show.

With every exciting burst, onlookers hit their horns to show their approval. Hundreds of vehicles filled the parking lot and lined both sides of U.S. Highway 14-A for the show. When the grand finale ended, people cheered and blared their horns in approval.

The company will open several retail stores across Park and Big Horn counties, including Pyrotech Professionals, the Powell outlet that sponsored the show. Plans are still on for Independence Day celebrations in Cody and Cowley. And, after the success of Friday’s show, the company decided to try a public demonstration again in the future.

“Everyone enjoyed the show so we’re planning to make this an annual event,” said Ashley Good.