Indio Swaps Fireworks for Drones at Free Fourth of July Celebration

Indio is trading fireworks for a drone show this Fourth of July, and the city wants everyone to come.

The third annual Independence Day Bash returns to the Empire Polo Grounds on Saturday, July 4th, running from 6 to 10 p.m. with free admission. This year's show features twice as many drones as last year, lighting up the sky at 9:30 p.m. in what the city is billing as an expanded, family-friendly alternative to a traditional fireworks display.

Alongside the drone show, attendees can expect live entertainment, food vendors, a kids zone, and a beer garden. Parking lots open at 5:30 p.m., and the city encourages guests to bring blankets and chairs. 

Vendors and nonprofits hoping to participate still have time to apply, though the deadline is June 26th. Food and beverage spots have already been filled. The vendor application can be found at woobox.com/wugzb8.