City of Wasilla safely celebrates New Year’s Eve with community during annual Firework show

WASILLA — The City of Wasilla was able to safely put on its annual New Year’s Eve firework show after quelling concerns over windy conditions. The show went on for 22 minutes, according to Wasilla Mayor Bert Cottle.

“It was good. Everything was fine; just like clockwork,” Cottle said. “It was a good night.”

Cottle and other city officials like Recreation Services Director Joan Klapperich attended the annual holiday tradition Tuesday evening at the usual location, Wonderland Park. Immediately following the fireworks, it began to snow, according to Klapperich.

“It was beautiful; it really was, bringing in a whole new decade,” Klapperich said.

The city’s parks department set up bleachers for spectators. Klapperich said it was a good turnout.

On top of the free firework show, one of the event sponsors Planet Fitness had representatives onsite handing out glow sticks for the attending children.

“It just made it really fun. Lots of families, it was just something for them to be able to do. It was early enough at 8 o’clock that families could really enjoy it and some of the old folks could enjoy it too,” Klapperich said.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com