Houston Fire Department turns on the waterworks for fun on July 4

While most areas have parades to celebrate Independence Day fun, the city of Houston has a decidedly different, super-soaked fun as the Houston Fire Department (HFD) hosted the sixth annual Houston Waterworks Show.

The free event was held at HFD Fire Station 9-1, directly adjacent to the Houston City Hall. There were activities, games, and squirt guns available as kids of all ages frolicked and had some childish fun.

The idea came during the summer of 2019, one of the hottest summers on record for the area, and for the state of Alaska as a whole. With continued dry conditions, and restrictions on burning and fireworks, Houston found a new way to celebrate the 4th of July.

“We couldn’t have fireworks, but kids need to have fun, so we had waterworks,” said HFD Chief Christian Hartley.

One of the highlights of the day was a massive squirt gun fight, which the HFD is claiming victory, though they had quite the assist with the big deck gun on Pumper Tender 91.

Kids and parents were given tours of the fire truck, HFD gave master stream demonstrations, along with a water slide, and of course, lots and lots of cold water.

Chief Hartley reports that nearly 400 people came to have fun with a summer splash in near-perfect weather.

“It always excites us to provide a fun and safe alternative to fireworks that allow kids to have fun with their siblings, friends, and as a family,” he says. “It has turned into community-loved event. Next year, we will expand it and add a few extra activities.”

The HFD also extended many thanks to Houston Lions Club, Gorilla Fireworks, and Houston Fire Auxiliary for their help and donations.