See behind-the-scenes at Rancho Cordova’s fireworks show
“The rule of fireworks is that it only has to work once,” said fireworks operator Josh Moore while setting up for Rancho Cordova’s annual Fourth of July fireworks show.
The two-day event at Hagan Community Park runs from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. on July 3 and July 4 and features carnival rides, live concerts and evening firework shows starting at 9:45 p.m.
Moore, alongside senior pyrotechnic engineer Lee Frechette and a team of 10 pyrotechnic engineers, lead the preparations for the fireworks show.
The setup involves wooden rocks containing guns of varying calibers strategically positioned to unleash effects across the sky. The crates are situated a safe distance away from the viewing area, with some positioned inside the temporarily closed dog park.
“The whole show is highly choreographed by our choreographer and it’s synchronized to music,” Frechette said.
Frechette said he is primarily concerned for the safety of his crew amid the heat, as well as ensuring the show unfolds precisely as designed by the choreographer.
“We’re not really worried about the number of shells on the show. We’re more worried about making sure that the show is assembled correctly, that all the right cues go to the right guns,” Frechette said.
The annual fireworks display has been showcased since 2003 when Rancho Cordova attained cityhood.
Access to the fireworks viewing area inside the park requires tickets, purchased online or at the gate for $10.
