One of Belle Center’s favorite traditions returns Saturday as the community comes together for a full day of family fun, food, entertainment, and an evening fireworks spectacular—all made possible by the people who call Belle Center home.
The celebration begins with the annual parade through the village at noon, welcoming residents and visitors alike to kick off the festivities.
After the parade, the action moves to the park, where food trucks will be serving throughout the afternoon and evening, giving families plenty of opportunities to grab a bite while enjoying the day’s activities.
There will be something for everyone, including a cornhole tournament with day-of-event registration, music from the 1980s, professional wrestling entertainment, and a variety of family-friendly attractions.
One of the evening’s featured events will be the Power Wheels Derby, beginning at 7:30 p.m., where young drivers will have the chance to show off their skills.
A new axe-throwing trailer will also make its debut, giving visitors another way to join in the fun.
The annual fundraiser is made possible through the generosity of the community.
Earlier this year, organizers hosted a successful reverse raffle that raised approximately $16,000, helping the committee bring in nearly $40,000 to support this year’s fireworks display and event expenses.
As the sun sets, the fireworks will take center stage.
But unlike many community celebrations, Belle Center’s fireworks aren’t launched by a professional company hired from out of town.
Instead, the entire display is designed, prepared, and fired by local volunteers who dedicate countless hours to making sure their friends, neighbors, and visitors enjoy a memorable Fourth of July celebration.
Organizers say that’s what makes Belle Center’s show so unique and so meaningful.
Greg Fitzpatrick, who has been a part of the show for years, talks about how special it is:
This year’s fireworks crew includes Greg Fitzpatrick, Rex Reames, Mark Fullerton, Jason Johns, Anthony Elsasser, Steve Tracey, Tim Jenkins, Trent Kramer, Megan Fitzpatrick, Heather Fitzpatrick, Jeff Leiter, Chris Salsbury, Mrs. Salsbury, and Gabriel Elsasser.
Among the crew are Rex Reames, Anthony Elsasser, and Gabriel Elsasser, representing three generations of volunteers who continue a family tradition of helping light up the skies over Belle Center.
The committee also honored the many volunteers who have helped produce the fireworks over the years, including Rick Moore, Steve Moore, Rodney Wood, Rodney Bair, Rhandy Robinson, John Krouse, Steve Plikerd, Dustin Plikerd, Mel Walton, Don Walton, Kevin Moore, Jeremy Payne, Kris Koehler, Drew Dixon, T.J. King, Jeff Chiles, Tom Jarvis, Alex Jarvis, Tom Faber, Crosby Manchester, Berry Warne, Todd Lattimore, Jerry Downing and Richard Stoker.
Committee Chair Heather Fitzpatrick says the fireworks have become much more than a show—they’re a tradition that brings the entire community together.
“In a lot of small towns, traditions like these have faded away over the years, but in Belle Center people continue to show up and make it happen every year. We’re incredibly grateful for everyone who volunteers, donates, attends events and supports our fundraising efforts. Their generosity is what keeps this tradition alive. That’s why donating is so important. In a world where so much changes so quickly, it’s pretty special to have a tradition that still brings an entire community together. That’s something worth preserving.”
Organizers say the event wouldn’t be possible without the support of local businesses, sponsors, volunteers, and everyone who attends the fundraising events throughout the year.
Those who would like to help preserve the tradition can donate to:
Belle Center Fireworks
Post Office Box 513
Belle Center, Ohio 43310
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or visiting for the first time, organizers invite everyone to spend the day in Belle Center and celebrate a hometown tradition that continues to thrive thanks to those who believe in it.
