Rain did not stop Hastings fireworks show
The weather gave Hastings nearly a full day of sunshine for the Fourth of July, then changed the plan just enough to make fireworks fans work for the finale.
Saturday, July 4, was warm and mostly sunny through the day and well into the evening parade. The temperature topped out around 88 degrees, giving the holiday a classic summer feel as residents lined the parade route, gathered with family and friends, and made plans for the fireworks later that night.
That changed around 9 p.m., when rain moved into the area. Several red and yellow cells showed up on the radar, bringing rain that soaked fireworks fans of all ages as they waited for the annual display at Hastings Golf Club and Events.
The fireworks show, sponsored by Vermillion State Bank, was delayed by the weather, but it was not canceled. The show started around 10:15 p.m., about 15 minutes later than scheduled, and lasted roughly 20 minutes.
Even with the rain, the show delivered.
The fireworks rose above Hastings Golf Club and Events, giving those who stayed through the weather a bright and colorful ending to the Fourth of July celebration. The rain made the wait a little more uncomfortable, but it did not take away from the display itself, which was well done and beautiful as always.
The timing made for an unusual evening. For much of the day, the weather looked like it would cooperate from start to finish. The sun stayed out through the parade, and the warm temperature made it feel like a true summer holiday. By the time fireworks fans were settling in for the 10 p.m. show, however, the sky had turned and the rain had arrived.
Still, the delay was relatively short, and the payoff was worth it for those who remained. The fireworks lasted long enough to give Hastings the traditional close to Independence Day, with bursts of color lighting up the rainy night sky.
The Fourth of July fireworks remain one of the signature pieces of the Hastings celebration. The parade brings people out earlier in the evening, but the fireworks are the final gathering point, the part of the night where families, neighbors and visitors pause together and look up.
This year, they just had to do it in the rain.