One of the biggest fireworks shows in the area is in Grand Mound, Iowa. The small Clinton County town draws thousands of people from all over to celebrate the 4th of July.
"They just put on a great show, by far the best fireworks I've ever seen," says Justine Mitchell from Port Byron, IL.
"We come out here, because it's one of the best show's around," adds Mike Palmer of Oxford Junction, IA.
The heat and humidity did not keep people from celebrating the Fourth in Grand Mound. People starting setting up early to catch one of the biggest shows in the QCA.
"They got out here with the canopies about 1:30pm and we got here about 2pm," adds Mitchell.
"We brought plenty of water and some ice cubes," says Palmers, "We also have water bottles full of water to spray ourselves down with and keep ourselves cool."
For many the Grand Mound Fireworks Show is an annual tradition with special meaning.
"I proposed to her last year during the grand finale," says Chris Vandivier.
"I'm enjoying my honeymoon at the 4th of July show this year," says Holly Palmer.
The Clinton County Fireworks Association has been putting on the show for 34-years.
"For us guys that do it, it's our Christmas in July," says Clinton County Fireworks Association Treasurer Ron Claussen, "It's our favorite holiday of the year."
Donations fund the entire celebration.
"We have a lot of businesses that donate. First Central Bank is our sponsor and we receive money from riverboat grants," adds Claussen.
People also donate during the event and to keep costs down there is no advertising, it's all word of mouth.
"People know where Grand Mound is because of the fireworks," says Claussen, "I think that's the biggest reason."
To make sure everyone stays during the fireworks show, the Grand Mound Fire Department sprayed down the entire area around the fireworks. A crew was also on hand to make sure the heat and dry conditions did not cause any problems.
