FREEDOM FIREWORKS SHOW A GO!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Leo-Cedarville and Growing Grabill Join Forces to Keep Freedom Festival Alive Despite Bridge Closure

LEO-CEDARVILLE, IN — The Town of Leo-Cedarville, in partnership with the non-profit Growing Grabill and a dedicated coalition of a few local volunteers, is proud to announce that the annual Freedom Fireworks Show will move forward this summer—despite the recent closure of the key bridge connecting parts of the community and previous announced cancellation by the Leo-Cedarville Foundation.

The Freedom Fireworks Show is currently scheduled for June 28, 2025 with parking opening at 6pm.  Concerns were raised late last year when the planned Grabill Bridge replacement was officially announced to be completed during the summer of 2025, resulting in a full road closure—a primary access route between Leo-Cedarville, Riverside Gardens and nearby Grabill.

The Freedom Festival in years past, had been orchestrated through the Leo-Cedarville Foundation and with the concerns of the bridge closure, the Leo-Cedarville Foundation felt it best to cancel the 2025 Festival, making that announcement in January 2025.

Rather than cancel or postpone the beloved event, The Town, local leaders, businesses, and volunteers came together to develop a creative, community-first solution.  The event will be a Fireworks Show only and the staging area has been moved to accommodate viewing from both sides of the river.  This year you will be able to view the Fireworks Show from Riverside Gardens or from the Leo Elementary parking lot.  This unique opportunity is only possible because of the cooperation with EACS and is just a part of continuing a cherished tradition in northeast Allen County, that in years past has drawn thousands of families and visitors to celebrate Independence Day with a community spirit.

"We knew we couldn’t let the bridge closure stop us," said Leo-Cedarville Town Manager Tyler Witmer. "The festival in years past has been more than an event—it's a celebration of our community’s resilience and unity. We’re proud to say we are working diligently to keep the Freedom Fireworks Show an annual event.”

Leo High School Class of 2025, Salutatorian, wrote in an essay titled, The Firework of My Youth: A Reflection on the Leo Freedom Festival, “The Leo Freedom Festival turns our quiet town into a vibrant celebration of freedom, community, and life itself.” Her essay, a key provider in the decision making to push for the continuation of the Freedom Fireworks Show, writes of the exciting moments, memories and community unity she has witnessed for the many years she has been there and participated.

The event will be a Fireworks Show only and no other activities have been scheduled. To secure the best possible show the Town is seeking financial support.  With your contributions, the Town can ensure that this meaningful tradition thrives for future generations to enjoy. 

The full schedule of the event and more information will be available on the Town of Leo-Cedarville website and social media pages in the coming weeks.

Residents are encouraged to mark their calendars for June 27, 2025 for the annual Car Cruise In at Riverside Gardens and June 28, 2025 6pm for the Freedom Fireworks Show that celebrates not just independence—but also the enduring strength of community.

Media Contact:                                              Donation Contact:

·        Town of Leo-Cedarville                           - Growing Grabill

• Tyler Manager                                       - Dave Shuey

  Town Manager                                        Treasurer c/o Fireworks

  260-999-3375                                         Financial Partners FCU

twitmer@leocedarville.in.gov                    PO Box 125

                                                              Woodburn, IN 46797-0125