Everything You Need to Know for the Lufkin Fireworks Extravaganza

The 18th Annual City of Lufkin 4th of July Fireworks Extravaganza presented by Mike Love & Associates is Tuesday at Ellen Trout Park in Lufkin. This is one of the largest fireworks displays between Dallas and Houston. Plus, unlike watching fireworks displays in the metros, you are able to get close to all the action by attending the event in Lufkin.

There will be numerous vendors selling food and much more, and there will be activities for the kids and live entertainment. Let's run down the questions you may have about the event.

Where does the Fireworks Extravaganza take place?

• Ellen Trout Park - 402 Zoo Circle, Lufkin, Texas

What time does the extravaganza start?

• Vendors will open to the public at 5 p.m.

Is there a charge to park or to enter the park grounds?

• No to both

Who will be playing on stage?

• Logan Tucker will play at 5, followed by Joe Cuellar at 6, and then Jackson Wendell Band at 7.

Where is the parking for the event?

• You can park at the Angelina County Expo Center parking lots and then walk to the park. Many people park along the shoulder on Loop 287 and watch the fireworks from there. In previous years, some have parked along Highway 59 near Winston Ranch...DO NOT do so this year. Major road construction is happening there.

Where is the best place to view the fireworks show?

• Inside the park surrounding Ellen Trout Lake. Those viewing the show from outside the park will be treated to an outstanding show, but they will miss much of the low-level fireworks that are choreographed to the music.

Will the zoo be open, and will the mini-train be running?

• Yes, Ellen Trout Zoo will open at 9 a.m. The Z&OO train will also be running.

What time will the Loop near Ellen Trout Park close to traffic?

• Between 8 pm - 11 pm, the Lufkin Police Department will close the section of roadway near Ellen Trout Park and Zoo on Ellen Trout Drive/SL 287 from just east of US 59 North to US 69 North. Traffic will be diverted to BU 59/Timberland Drive, US 59 North, and Kurth Drive.

What about vehicle access to Ellen Trout Park and Zoo?

• Zoo Circle will remain open for guests until 4 p.m. At 4 p.m. sharp, traffic to Zoo Circle will be closed off.  Likewise, anyone parked on Zoo Circle or inside the immediate Ellen Trout Lake area must have their vehicles moved out by 4 p.m. It's highly suggested that you make arrangements for your vehicle to be outside the Zoo Circle area by 3:30 p.m.

I parked in the Expo Center parking lot for some of the festivities leading up to the fireworks. It is now 8:15 and I don't want to stay for the fireworks, how do I leave?

• You don't. Traffic onto that portion of Loop 287 is closed at 8 p.m. You will need to wait until the end of the fireworks.

Will shuttle buses be running again this year?

• Free shuttle buses will be offered again boarding at Lufkin High School (309 S. Medford Drive). They will run between 5-8 p.m. and then following the fireworks.

What is allowed/not allowed at Ellen Trout Park?

• Low lawn chairs, blankets, and coolers are welcome while alcoholic beverages, glass, tobacco products, fireworks, and pets are not permitted. Lufkin Police will be checking at all entry locations as well as patrolling the grounds.

What time will the fireworks start?

• They usually get underway between 9:20-9:30, and last between 20-25 minutes.

Is there music that goes along with the fireworks display?

• Yes, the official choreographed music will be on KICKS 105 radio (105.1FM).  Try your best to listen to the on-air broadcast.  If you stream the music on your phone or another smart device, the music will be delayed. A special thanks to Big Boys Toys in Lufkin for providing the satellite resources to ensure that we have broadcast capability from the site

How Do I Sign Up to Be the Official 'Starter' of the Fireworks?

• Drop by the Mike Love & Associates booth next to the stage and get signed up. A lucky person (no age restrictions) will be drawn to push the button to launch the first salvo of the fireworks display.

You already know it is going to be rather warm. So, make sure you hydrate and stay in the shade as much as possible. Wear sunscreen and be sure to reapply when necessary.

Above all, be ready to have fun and to celebrate our country's birthday.