What To Do: Celebrating America on the Fourth

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times Welcome America This is Fourth of July Weekend and that means it is time for parties, festivals, picnics and a lot of fireworks displays. “Wawa Welcome America” (www.welcomeamerica.com), which is running through July 4, is a festival of free events in Philadelphia in celebration of our nation’s birthday — a huge party that hits its peak with...

Dinniman: repeal 2017 fireworks law

WEST CHESTER — State Senator Andy Dinniman said today he supports legislation to repeal Pennsylvania’s 2017 fireworks law after fireworks accidents have led to injuries, claimed lives, and resulted in fires and significant property damage in just the past few weeks.  “The ongoing and near-constant use of powerful fireworks in a disrespectful and downright careless manner has become...

What To Do: Fun, Freedom, fireworks and Good Neighbors for 4th of July

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times Downingtown Good Neighbor Day Independence Day is just around the corner but, unfortunately, there is no Independence Day Weekend this here because July 4 falls on a Wednesday. This means there will be some adjustments for the time period when June slides into July. There will still be a wide variety of holiday activities – they just won’t be weekend...

Officials: Have fun, but stay safe for 4th weekend

While the Fourth of July means fireworks, fun, outdoor grilling and more, state and local officials are reminding everyone not to ignore safety in preparing for their celebrations — or travel – this long holiday weekend. Although long a staple of holiday weekend celebrations, fireworks can be deadly, state officials warn, and should only be used in legal manner by responsible adults. ...

What To Do: get fired up for the Fourth!

Fireworks, fun and festivals highlight holiday weekend By Denny Dyroff, Staff Writer, The Times Freedom Fest will light up the skies over Nottingham. Independence Day Weekend is here — along with the hot weather that usually accompanies it. Area residents know that the arrival of the long holiday weekend means it is time for two of Chester County’s longest-running and most popular Independence...

Have a great Fourth of July weekend, but be smart and be safe

With mostly good weather forecast (the lone concern is a chance of serious thunderstorms Friday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service) most area residents who haven’t opted to head out of town are likely ready for fun with friends and family over the long holiday weekend. But — as state and local officials advise — a little bit of caution and common sense can keep the holiday festivities...

Firefighters advise extreme caution with fireworks

COATESVILLE – Independence Day, unfortunately, is one of the busiest days of the year for fire fighters. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), more fires are reported on the Fourth of July than on any other day of the year, and two out of five are fireworks-related incidents. IAFF Local 3790 advises that the best way to enjoy fireworks and prevent injury is to watch a professional...

What To Do: Dinosaurs to roar into 2016

Plus: New Year’s Eve rocks in Kennett and around the region By Denny Dyroff, Staff Writer, The Times The Delaware Museum of Natural History presents its Dino Days Festival this coming week. At the end of each year, the Delaware Museum of Natural History (4840 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-658-9111, www.delmnh.org) presents a special event geared for families for the week between Christmas...

What To Do: Mushroom Drop, Mummers top New Year’s Eve

And for those still looking to get their Christmas on, many local events this weekend By Denny Dyroff, Staff Writer, The Times Chester County’s newest — and arguably already best-known — New Years Eve celebration is the Mushroom Drop, as part of Kennett Square’s Midnight in The Square celebration. While New York may have its crystal ball, Key West, a giant shoe, and Philadelphia has...

Community Unity Explosion brings residents to Gateway

Residents continue July 4 weekend festivities in Gateway Park By Kyle Carrozza, Staff Writer, The Times COATESVILLE – Parents, children, residents of all ages, performers, vendors, musicians, judges, business owners, city council members, and police officers filled First Ave and Gateway Park on Saturday during the Coatesville Community Unity Explosion. City Council Member Marie Hess cools down on...