Saturday, July 4, 2026 

DUBUQUE, Iowa — Thousands of people gathered along the Mississippi River on July 3 to enjoy the annual airshow and fireworks display, kicking off the Independence Day holiday with an evening of entertainment and celebration.

The event featured an impressive airshow over the river, followed by a colorful fireworks display that lit up the night sky. Families and visitors lined the riverfront hours before the show, creating a festive atmosphere as the community came together to celebrate.

While many attendees praised the fireworks and aerial performances, the evening was not without controversy.

According to reports from those at the event, an assault occurred before the fireworks, drawing a response from law enforcement. Authorities have not yet released complete details about the incident, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Several attendees also voiced concerns about concessions available during the event. Some said there were only a handful of food vendors on site, resulting in long lines and limited food options. Others expressed frustration that soft drinks, including Pepsi products, were reportedly unavailable, and that alcoholic beverages were also not available for purchase. The issue sparked discussion among attendees, with some questioning whether additional food and beverage options should have been offered.

Despite those concerns, many spectators described the fireworks display as one of the highlights of the holiday weekend. The colorful finale reflected across the Mississippi River and was met with applause from the large crowd gathered along the waterfront.

As with many large public events, organizers will likely review feedback from attendees as they plan for future celebrations. Community members continue to hope for an event that balances exciting entertainment with adequate concessions, safety, and a positive experience for families.

What did you think of this year’s July 3 celebration? We wants to hear from you. Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know what you enjoyed and what improvements you’d like to see in the future.