Western Winter Blast And Rockabilly Reunion Light Up This Desert Town
By Wil Barnes, PubClub.com Special Correspondent
We all know that February 14 is a day to share the “love,” Valentines Day. They say sometimes love signals fireworks.
This year “Love Day” falls on the Sunday of Presidents Holiday Weekend where fireworks will be front, center and overhead. If you want enjoy an amazing three days, then head to Lake Havasu City, AZ, as it celebrates two very special events.
A Non-Stop Fourth Of July Fireworks Show In February
One is rhe 26th annual Western Winter Blast. This kicks off on Thursday the 11th, as the skies are filled with fireworks put on by the Western Pyrotechnics Association for its annual outdoor convention.
“This will be our 26th year holding our annual convention in Havasu,” said VP Greg Dandurand. “Sara Park offered us the infrastructure we were looking for, space, not many homes close by and safety. It’s changed a lot since we first were there several years ago.”
Fireworks enthusiasts gather on the south of town at Sara Park where WPA members show off their best productions for customers who come from all over the western USA to make decisions on what they want to purchase for their firework shows, whether that is the 4th of July or a special event.
“It’s a chance for us to share conversations with experts in the industry,” Dandurand said. “There are seminars every day that cover all aspects of fireworks from production to safety. We educate advocates of pyrotechnics.
“Don’t try this at home. It’s a one-of-a-kind weekend outside in the desert.”
Shows begin around 5 p.m., daily and go into the night ending usually about 10:30. Tickets are only $3. Parking in the lot is $5. As one local describes the scene, “think of it as a continuous Fourth of July weekend celebration.”
Vintage Cars & Motorcycles Show
Also on this weekend Lake Havasu celebrates the eigth annual Rockabilly Reunion held down by the lake just south of famous London Bridge.
There are some 800 vintage cars and motorcycles on display, 150 vendors, beer gardens, food, 18 rockin’ bands and the ever, popular Miss Pin Up Girls contest (of course!). Tickets are $12 for one day pre-sale and $15 day of the event.
Three-day passes are $30 pre-sale and $45 day of the event There is no reason you can’t rock out in the day and watch the skies light up at night. It should be one helluva weekend in Lake Havasu whether you are on the shore or on the water.
Visit golakehavasu.com for accommodations and advance tickets, or visit westernpyro.org for even more on the fireworks show.
Where To Eat In Havasu: La Vita Dolce Italian Restaurant
So come join the party. Oh, and here is a tip for all from the author. One thing to remember is to get a reservation at La Vita Dolce, the best restaurant in town. It is fabulous authentic Italian food served in a casual and fun atmosphere.
Owner Rob Day has really created a hot spot; it’s a great place and one visit will have you anxious to to back again. Believe me, if you don’t have a reservation, you’ll be waiting, but the wait is worth it.
The menu includes the usual tasty Italian fare, spaghetti meatballs, veal or chicken ptarmigan and the best linguini and clams. Oh, and the pizza!
Prices are very reasonable and there is a very solid wine list. Visit its website lavitadolce.com for its complete menu.
To make your reservation call (928) 680-5885
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