By Stacy Turner

We’re in the heart of summer here in Northeast Ohio, and for me and my family, it wouldn’t feel like summer without seeing at least one fireworks display lighting up the sky on a warm summer night. I don’t know which part I enjoy more: the bright colors, the sparkling trails of light, or the combination of pops, booms and crackles synchronized with a soundtrack of patriotic music.

According to Britannica, the tradition of fireworks on Independence Day began the year after the signing of the Declaration of Independence—July 4, 1777. As a nation, we’ve celebrated in much the same way for nearly 250 years.

As another Fourth of July has now come and gone, I find myself reflecting on what makes these displays such an enduring part of summer. Lying back on a blanket and watching colorful blooms appear overhead, leaving sparkling trails as they crackle, whistle and bang, is one of those simple experiences that never seems to get old.

When my kids were little, we would take turns inventing names for each new burst that appeared in the sky. “That’s a Whistling Sister!” one of us would say. “That’s a Fuzz Boom Bah!” another would answer. We kept it up until the rapid-fire grand finale made it impossible to keep up with the explosions overhead.

Recently, though, at a local festival, we experienced something new: a drone show. Maybe you’ve seen one before, but this was my first, and I was excited to see what all the buzz was about. At the same time, I wondered whether this newer technology might someday replace traditional fireworks.

Hundreds of drones lifted into the air in a coordinated display of lights and motion. Unlike fireworks, drones can create detailed images, animations and even words across the night sky. Patriotic music accompanied the performance, though at a much lower volume than a typical fireworks show.

As the drones shifted colors and formations, they transformed from the Statue of Liberty to a soaring eagle with slowly flapping wings. An American flag appeared to ripple in the breeze before changing into a soldier’s salute. The display concluded with the words “Thank You Heroes” stretching across the sky.

Was it impressive? Absolutely.

Was it patriotic? Without question.

Yet when the drones landed, I found myself wanting something more. The experience was fascinating, but it lacked the anticipation, thunder and excitement that come with a traditional fireworks display. I was relieved to discover I’m not alone in feeling that way.

As I looked into other drone shows around the country, I learned that most communities and entertainment venues aren’t replacing fireworks. Instead, drones are often used to complement them. From Disney’s massive 800-plus-drone productions to smaller community displays, drone shows frequently serve as an opening act or special feature before the main event—a classic fireworks show.

To me, that feels very American. We embrace new technology while still holding onto traditions that bring people together.

Whether you’re firmly Team Fireworks, enthusiastically Team Drone, or somewhere in between, I hope you find time to spend a warm summer evening looking up at the night sky with family and friends. Technology may change, but the simple joy of sharing a memorable experience beneath the stars remains timeless.