Harrisburg officials say curfew is unrelated to firework show's return at Kipona Festival

Harrisburg will feature fireworks and a drone show at the 2025 Kipona Festival after canceling the 2024 event due to safety concerns. Mayor Wanda Williams had previously canceled this year's Fourth of July fireworks for similar reasons. City officials confirmed that the curfew for unsupervised minors, currently set at 11:00 p. m. , will not impede attendance at the festival.

Communications director Mischelle Moyer noted, "This is very, very obvious to us that the public wants fireworks. " Increased police presence aims to ensure safety following chaotic incidents during last year's Fourth of July celebrations. Local business owners, such as Vicki Vaccarella of Palumbo's, expressed excitement about attracting more visitors to the city. The fireworks show is scheduled for 8:10 p. m.

, earlier than the traditional July 4th timing. Harrisburg officials hope that heightened law enforcement will prevent future disturbances and allow the festival to thrive.