UPDATE: The fireworks are canceled

Heroes ensure Silver Lake fireworks blast off this year.

GOLDEN TOWNSHIP — Since 1988, both visitors and locals alike look forward to the Thunder Over the Dunes fireworks display at Silver Lake for the Fourth of July.

This year, however, many worried that the event wouldn’t go on due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Like so many businesses throughout Michigan, local Hart and Silver Lake area commerce has been hurt financially by the pandemic,” states a press release from the Silver Lake Sand Dunes-Hart Visitors Bureau. “And as the customary sponsors of the annual fireworks, this did not bode well for the event.

“Fortunately, however, the Silver Lake community never fails to pull through — even during difficult times. As a testament to this, we are beyond grateful to announce that this year’s Thunder Over the Dunes fireworks display will still take place — due to the generous support and sponsorship of a local nonprofit organization called The Heroes Operation.

“The Heroes Operation is a local nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring and supporting veterans and first responders. As part of the organization’s community service initiative, they have graciously decided to sponsor this year’s fireworks in Silver Lake.

“We are so proud to have The Heroes Operation as fellow members of the community and thank them for their generosity during this challenging time. We also invite visitors to learn more about The Heroes Operation’s contributions to Thunder Over the Dunes, as well as how you can donate to their cause.”

If you want to donate to future Silver Lake fireworks, send a check to Greater Silver Lake Fireworks Fund, 7990 W. Hazel Rd. Silver Lake, Mi. 49436.

The fireworks at the Silver Lake Sand Dunes State Park, at 8960 W. Fox Rd., are set for Saturday, July 4, beginning at 10 p.m.

“While many other communities along the lakeshore have completely cancelled their Fourth of July fireworks, Silver Lake remains one of the only areas to be putting on a show, despite the pandemic. One of the reasons for this is our expansive viewing area here in Silver Lake. You can watch the fireworks from anywhere on the dunes, or along the Lake Michigan or Silver Lake shorelines, and still stay completely apart from others. Choose an ideal spot on land (or water), and you’ll be easily spread out enough to stay safe, per the 6-foot state-recommended guidelines.

“While our viewing area can easily accommodate a sizable number of visitors at safe social distances, do keep in mind that, in addition to staying at least 6 feet apart, it is also still recommended that you wear masks and wash your hands frequently while out in public.”

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