Fourth of July wouldn’t be Fourth of July without watching an elaborate fireworks display. While the holiday weekend may seem incredibly far away at the moment, Montauk Chamber of Commerce is already brainstorming plans for their annual “Stars Over Montauk” fireworks display at Umbrella Beach by Grucci Fireworks.
As the cost of production rises, and insurance and municipality costs increase, the non-profit organizations that organize “Stars Over Montauk” are left with limited resources for the event. Montauk Chamber of Commerce is asking locals and visitors alike for support of the community Independence Day tradition, through a crowd sourcing campaign. “The chamber launched its first Go Fund Me campaign on April 19th this year after learning that the Shelter Island fireworks organizer garnered $34,000 from its Go Fund Me campaign,” said Laraine Creegan, Executive Director of the Montauk Chamber of Commerce. “We source about half of the cost from our hotel members, however to give you an example of rising costs, the fireworks cost $16,000 ten years ago, $19,000 five years ago and $23,000 today.”
Montauk Chamber needs a successful Go Fund Me campaign to keep the beloved Hamptons tradition alive. “We struggle to make up the difference from chamber resources and that means taking away from or eliminating another special event that contributes to our prime, short tourist season economy,” noted Creegan.
To support Montauk Chamber of Commerce’s “Stars Over Montauk” firework campaign, visit www.gofundme.com.