Get set for another spectacular Independence Day fireworks display over Lake Wallenpaupack on Saturday, July 4.

“Summer nights, hot dogs, the American Flag and sparklers are 4th of July memories that we all share, but above all, the fireworks on Lake Wallenpaupack hold a special place in our community’s heart and history,” officials of the Hawley-Lake Wallenpaupack Chamber of Commerce said. “Once again we honor our past by scheduling the fireworks display for Saturday July 4 with a rain date of July 5. Lake Wallenpaupack has become known for its fireworks display.”

The celebration begins earlier in the day with Hawley’s Annual  Independence Day Parade Saturday, July 4, in downtown Hawley Borough, just west of Lake Wallenpaupack. Line up is at 11 am and the parade steps off at 12 noon.

Mayor Ann R. Morgan, who coordinates the event, said all veterans service units are honored as grand marshals of the annual parade.

After years of dedicated interest and financial commitment from area businesses owners and residents, the Pocono Lake-Region can proudly boast one of the best fireworks displays in the tri-state area, Chamber officials added. Drawing thousands to our lake-region restaurants, merchants, marinas, campgrounds and lodgings, the fireworks have become an important part of our lake culture and Lake Wallenpaupack has become known for its fireworks display.

This display is fired near the shores of Lake Wallenpaupack, next to the Wallenpaupack Area High School, and will begin at approximately 9:15 pm. Parking will be available in the High School  parking lots, and the bleachers will be open to spectators at approximately 7 pm. Viewing the fireworks will still be available at the dike and by boat from the Lake, as well. With record setting crowds forecasted for 2009, attendees are encouraged to arrive early.

The Wallenpaupack Fireworks are made possible entirely through donations and sponsorship. The  Committee thanks all businesses and residents who have donated in the past. Lighthouse Harbor Marina has again pledged their support to ensure this family tradition continues. As a major sponsor, this is the 15th year Lighthouse Harbor Marina has contributed.

Other past supporting sponsors include: Davis R Chant Realtors, The Dime Bank, Sterling Marina,  Ehrhardt's Waterfront Resort, The Wayne County Commissioners, Lake Region IGA Supermarket,  Penn Security Bank & Trust Co, Bakker Marine Inc, The Boat House Restaurant, Wallenpaupack Marine Trades Association, 1st Klas Marina, Gresham’s Chop House, Hawley Market, Bracalente Mfg. Co. Inc, Wallenpaupack Lake Estates POA, Rex Brand Tree Experts, Pike/Wayne Association of REALTORS, East Shore Lodging/Wallenpaupack Scenic Boat Tours, North of the Border Fireworks, Weichert Realtors Paupack Group, VanGorder's Furniture Inc, The Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, Hawley-Lake Wallenpaupack Chamber of Commerce, Wallenpaupack Area High School, PPL, and numerous other businesses, property owners, and residents.

To make a donation to support the Lake Wallenpaupack Fireworks, please make checks payable to the H-LW Chamber, and send to the Hawley-Lake Wallenpaupack Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 150, Hawley PA 18428, or drop off contribution at Lighthouse Harbor Marina.

For more information on sponsoring the fireworks or other activities contact the Hawley-Lake Wallenpaupack Chamber of Commerce at 570-226-3191, or visit www.hawleywallenpaupackcc.com.

Mayor Morgan offered thanks to the many people who support and participate in the annual parades in Hawley. She also thanked those who make monetary donations to help offset the costs associated with sponsoring such events. She said donors are still welcome. More information is available by contacting the Borough at 226-9545.