Fantastic Fourth program draws thousands to CSU Stanislaus

More than 10,000 people flocked to the California State University, Stanislaus campus on July 4th to participate in the 24th Annual Fantastic Fourth festivities that included fireworks, concert music, and the program’s first-ever Kids’ Fair.

Especially popular this year was the CSU Stanislaus Alumni Kids’ Fair held prior to the fireworks show in the Arts Quad and featuring four bounce houses, face painting, Freckles the Clown, and food booths. Many participants enjoyed picnic dinners in the Amphitheatre during the pre-fireworks concert by the Stanislaus Pops Band, under the direction of conductor and CSU Stanislaus Music Professor Stuart Sims.

Pyro Spectaculars of Rialto conducted the fireworks show. The pyrotechnic display was fired from a new location on the east side of the campus as ordered by fire safety officials who were concerned about possible fire hazards with the trees in the traditional shoot site.

In response to the University’s request for donations from those in attendance to help cover the cost of the annual program, people gave approximately $3,500. Lead sponsors for this year’s program were County Bank, Holiday Inn Express of Turlock, The Modesto Bee, Monte Vista Crossings, Turlock Convention & Visitors Bureau, and Wilkey Sheet Metal of Turlock.

“California State University, Stanislaus is very appreciative of the generous support people have shown for the Fantastic Fourth tradition,” said Susana Gajic-Bruyea, Vice President for University Advancement. “We’re going to make it an even bigger and better event next year."