Fireworks for Special Events

The City of Owensboro, Kentucky is soliciting proposals for a comprehensive fireworks and pyrotechnic services contract through Request for Proposal (RFP) #4452, targeting vendors capable of producing choreographed fireworks shows for special events. The primary focus is a synchronized Fourth of July fireworks display to be launched simultaneously from four locations: Downtown Riverfront (55% of budget), Moreland Park (15%), Owensboro Warehouse Area (15%), and Southern Little League Fields (15%). The contract will run from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, with the main event scheduled for July 4, 2026, at 9:15 PM, featuring a 20-25 minute show with a total budget of $110,000. An additional smaller event, an Airshow, is included with a budget of $5,000-$7,500 and an estimated 15-minute display. Vendors must submit comprehensive proposals detailing show design, shell types, visual effects, company qualifications, crew experience, and equipment specifications. The evaluation will be conducted using a 100-point system, with points allocated as follows: cost (20 points), program creativity (30 points), experience (30 points), and assortment/type of shells (20 points). Proposals are due by 5:00 PM CT on December 5, 2025, through the Bonfire Portal, with vendor selection expected in the week of December 29, 2025.

The RFP does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Vendors must secure and maintain all required federal, state, and local permits, including U.S. Coast Guard, ATF, and Kentucky State Fire Marshal approvals. Insurance requirements mandate that the City of Owensboro be named as an additional insured, with specific insurance types and limits to be detailed in the final contract. Vendors are responsible for delivering and storing fireworks, setting up and firing the display, providing qualified and insured technicians, and ensuring compliance with NFPA 1123 and 1124 standards. The City reserves the right to cancel events for reasons including weather, safety, or budgetary concerns, and requires vendors to clearly identify any associated cancellation fees. Additionally, vendors must complete several mandatory compliance documents, including a Statement Pursuant to KRS45A.395 affirming no violation of campaign finance laws, a Vendor's Statement Pursuant to KRS45A.343 confirming compliance with various state regulations, and a Subcontractors Registry Page detailing any subcontractors who will perform work. The total budget for the fireworks services ranges from $115,000 to $117,500, covering both the Fourth of July and Airshow events.