Lights on the Lake confirmed for July Fourth

The return of Lights on the Lake is in the cards for July 4 after the Tahoe Douglas Visitors Authority approved a contract on Wednesday.

The Authority canceled both the 2020 and 2021 iterations of what has been described as one of the premier fireworks shows in the West.

There was a smaller show last summer from the roof of the Michael Laub building after Gardnerville resident Jonathan Ruppel’s effort attracted enough support to make it happen.

The University of Nevada, Reno, student had been trying to make a go of it on his own when The Shops at Heavenly Vice President and General Manager Gary Casteel Jr. picked up the cause and ran with it.

Because home fireworks are prohibited in the Sierra Front, fireworks shows provide an opportunity for residents and visitors to safely watch something explode on the Fourth.

Next week, the Gardnerville Town Board is being asked to approve a $24,000 contract with Pyro Guys Inc. to provide fireworks for the next three Christmas Kickoffs at $8,000 a piece.

The town has had fireworks for several years except 2020, when a November coronavirus surge resulted in their being canceled.

Gardnerville Town Board members meet 4:30 p.m. Tuesday at the town offices, 1407 Main St., Gardnerville.