The Bloomington City Council on Monday approved a $60,000 agreement to stage a drone show to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
The show at the Interstate Center will involve 300 drones and will include animation elements, custom audio and synchronization provided by Firefly Services. Bloomington, the Town of Normal and McLean County are partnering for the show and will share in the cost.
The town has agreed to pay up to $30,000 and the county up to $10,000, council members were told Monday. The contract also allows the city to enter into additional private partnerships to cover the cost of the show over the July 4 weekend — with local governments covering expenses not covered by private partnerships.
“I wonder if there are better ways to show our love for our country,” said council member Mollie Ward, the only one to vote against the proposal.
The City of Bloomington also approved a contract with Gateway Pyrotechnic Solutions for fireworks displays. The $125,000 contract covers Miller Park 4th of July Celebrations from 2026-28.
The 2026 display reflects a $5,000 higher price tag than the following two years to extend the show in both time and shell count because of America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
The Town of Normal approved a three-year contract with the same company for its celebrations at Fairview Park.
