Fireworks light up the Mat-Su Borough once again this New Year’s Eve

WASILLA — The usually dark Alaska winter skies will be brightened for several hours late on New Year's Eve and shortly into 2017. That's because personal use of fireworks, normally banned throughout the borough, is allowed (for seven hours) to help ring in the New Year. And while many will choose to partake in their personal pyrotechnic show, Wasilla will join the likes of larger cities such as Anchorage in providing fireworks displays.

With the exception of the city of Houston, personal use of fireworks is illegal in the Valley. Organized events featuring fireworks anywhere in the borough requires a permit and the deadline has passed. The borough and City of Wasilla have the same time guidelines. Fireworks may be used from 6 p.m. New Year's Eve until 1 a.m. New Year's Day. The City of Palmer also has a 1 a.m. Jan. 1 cutoff but doesn't allow them to start until 9 p.m.

Violators face fines of up to $500.

The usually darkened Big Lake turnoff Parks Highway at the Houston city limit has been much easier to locate since fireworks dealers along the route are open for the occasion. The "big kid" on the block, Gorilla Fireworks has seen steady business as the weekend's festivities draw near, according to manager Samantha Parsons.

"Things have been good. Lots of people getting ready," Parsons said. "It's nice that New Year's falls on a weekend and the snow makes things look great. Lots of people heading out to camps!"

As has been the case for a number of years, Parsons said Gorilla's "Show in a Box" assortment is again one of the most popular sellers. Users light one fuse and get a miniature pyrotechnic display lasting 20 to 40 seconds. Parsons said there are much larger displays as well as hundreds of individual fireworks available. She said there is something for everyone on every budget. Visit the store's website for Facebook page for last-minute deals and chances to win free fireworks.

The solid snow cover across the Valley may have eased fire worries. However, Parsons stressed safety is always a concern when using any kind of fireworks and stressed that usage should be limited to adults 21 and older. Care and consideration is also advised when shooting using fireworks around domestic animals.

"Always have a responsible and sober adult when using any kind of fireworks," Parsons stressed. "Have fun, keep things under control and be done by 1 a.m."

The City of Wasilla will host its annual New Year's Eve fireworks celebration at Wonderland Park starting at 8 p.m. Mayor Bert Cottle said the show will last a little less than a half-hour. In addition to the show, hot chocolate and sweets will be available. The show is put on by the Greater Wasilla Chamber of Commerce with support of the following sponsors: Anchorage and Valley Radiation and Therapy Centers--this year's major sponsor marking its 10th year in the Valley, Northrim Bank, CRW Engineering, Matanuska Electric Company (MEA), Alaska State Fair and Holiday Station Stores.

The City of Anchorage starts is celebration with the Fire & Ice New Year’s Eve in Town Square Park. Things kick off at 5 p.m. with a dance party and culminates at 8 p.m. with a large fireworks display. A children's ice gallery, food vendors and 3-D light projections will be featured throughout the park.