Quantcast

The DNAinfo archives brought to you by WNYC.
Read the press release here.

Saint Xavier University Celebrates Summer With Fireworks And Free Concert

 Saint Xavier University will host its 18th Annual Summer Concert and Fireworks show from 7-10 p.m. Sunday on its main campus at 3700 W. 103rd St.
Free Fireworks Show At Saint Xavier
View Full Caption

MOUNT GREENWOOD — Fireworks fanatics can satisfy their urge a full 12 days ahead of the Fourth of July at Saint Xavier University.

The school at 3700 W. 103rd St. will host its 18th Annual Summer Concert and Fireworks show from 7-10 p.m. Sunday.

The free event will feature the New Odyssey Band, which performs a variety of pop music perfectly suited for impromptu dancing beneath the stars. The band will perform on the front steps of the Warde Academic Center.

The concert will conclude with a patriotic finale and fireworks display at dusk — around 9:45 p.m.

Some 2,000 people annually attend the free fireworks show and concert. Prepared picnickers typically begin showing up around 5 p.m. to secure a good spot, according to Karla Thomas, executive director of media relations for Saint Xavier.

"Our show is way before the Fourth of July, so you can still go out and do other things that weekend," Thomas said.

Saint Xavier's annual concert and fireworks show began in 1996 with the idea of bringing the university and surrounding community together for a “Ravinia-like” experience, Thomas said.

Originally, the school held two such events, but the August concert was scrapped in 2001 due to poor attendance. The late-summer concert did not include fireworks and clashed with other back-to-school events, Thomas said.

Those attending Sunday night's event are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs. Changes to the fireworks program promise better audience sight lines this year.

Those enjoying the show may bring their own refreshments. Concessions will be also available from The Original Rainbow Cone, Gilhooley’s Grand Saloon, Calabria Imports, Happy Jack’s and the SXU Alumni Association.

For more neighborhood news, listen to DNAinfo Radio here: