Drone Light Show Services for America’s 250th Anniversary Celebration

The City of Yuma, Arizona, located in Yuma County, is seeking bids for Drone Light Show Services for America's 250th Anniversary Celebration through solicitation RFB-26-162. The procurement is for a comprehensive drone light show to be performed on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the Ray Kroc Sports Complex, requiring a minimum of 250 synchronized drones equipped with LED lighting, ground control stations, GPS, and communication systems. Vendors must provide all necessary equipment, personnel, and creative programming for a professional 13-15 minute aerial display visible from up to two miles away, following a 5:1 horizontal-to-vertical drone formation ratio. Bidders must demonstrate at least three years of experience managing 10 or more light shows, provide client references, and possess technical expertise in drone programming and FAA compliance. The bid requires submission through the City's online Procurement Portal by December 4, 2025, with a public bid opening via Microsoft Teams at 11:10 AM MST. Vendors must also collaborate with City personnel on creative development, including custom drone animations and a synchronized soundtrack.

The solicitation does not specify specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Three bidders submitted proposals: Aerial Illuminations Drone Light Shows at $46,500, Sky Elements at $42,495, and Grizzly Entertainment at $30,500, with Grizzly Entertainment offering the lowest bid. The contract is a one-time event procurement with firm, fixed pricing and no renewal options. Optional pricing is requested for a second identical drone show on the same evening (Option A) and professional video recording of the show (Option B). Bidders must obtain a City of Yuma business license, maintain comprehensive insurance, and comply with federal, state, and local laws. The City reserves the right to award the base show or include optional services based on budget availability. The total budget appears to be around $50,000, with the lowest bid coming in at $30,500, suggesting potential cost savings or room for negotiation. Vendors must also provide backup equipment to ensure uninterrupted service during the event.