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How many Oregon cities are replacing fireworks with tech on July Fourth?

Answer: At least four.

Fireworks against a dark background.
Fireworks aren’t enjoyable for everyone, to the point that some have to actively avoid them, so some cities in Oregon have decided to forego them in favor of technology-powered light shows this year for the Fourth of July.

In Tigard, revelers will be treated to a show with 200 illuminated drones on Thursday night. Hosted by Texas-based Sky Elements Drone Shows, the performance will last 30 minutes beginning after sunset. Lake Oswego is planning to host a free live concert that will end with a laser show. Oregon City will also be putting on a laser show once the sun goes down, the first time the city has done so. And Wilsonville will end its own free live concert with its third annual July Fourth laser display.

“With this change we are able to address some of the concerns that we’ve heard about a traditional fireworks show and provide a celebration that can include everyone,” Tigard Mayor Heidi Lueb said of the city’s decision to use drones instead.