The Clare County Fair Board has announced that this year’s Fourth of July fireworks display in Harrison will be the final one organized by the board, citing ongoing financial challenges that have made the tradition unsustainable.
Approximately three years ago, the Harrison Chamber of Commerce made the decision to discontinue its longstanding sponsorship of the annual fireworks display. In an effort to preserve the community tradition, the Clare County Fair Board stepped in to assume responsibility, hoping that local donations and community support would offset the cost of the event.
Despite those efforts, funding has consistently fallen short. Over the past three years, including this year’s display, the Fair Board has absorbed approximately $50,000 in expenses beyond what was raised through donations and contributions.
A breakdown of this year’s costs illustrates the financial gap.
The total cost of the fireworks display reached $18,000. Contributions included: $150 collected through donation canisters
$2,000 from local businesses
$3,000 from the City of Harrison
This left a shortfall of $12,850, which was covered by the Fair Board.
Board members expressed appreciation for the community’s support but noted that continuing to fund the event at such a deficit is no longer feasible. As a result, the 2026 Fourth of July fireworks display will mark the end of the Fair Board’s involvement in organizing the annual event.
The decision brings uncertainty to the future of the holiday tradition in Harrison, unless another organization or funding source emerges to take on the responsibility in the coming years.
Wednesday, July 22, 2026
