Labor Day fireworks show set in Big Lake

While there will be fireworks at the Alaska State Fair on Friday, the Big Lake community doesn't have to travel far to enjoy an aerial display this weekend.

The annual Big Lake Labor Day fireworks show is set for Sunday at 10 p.m.

The event is usually one of the largest firework shows in the state, and this year organizers are boasting it will include the "largest aerial shells ever fired in Alaska." Jerry's Fireworks puts on the show.

The first shells get shot at 10 p.m. from Saddleback Island on Big Lake.

While it is an aerial show, there is quite an aquatic presence. There are usually 200-400 boats that gather around the island for the show, which is also fully viewable from the old Klondike Inn, the Alaska Sailing Club and other shoreline viewing points.

People taking boats to the show should remember to stay back at least 1,250 feet from Saddleback Island, organizers said.

The entire 750-foot island is used to launch fireworks, including a 100-foot "waterfall" of fire suspended over the water. Star mine effects are being used to make it appear as if the whole island blows up during the fireworks display.

The event is free, and donations for the show are accepted at several Big Lake businesses.

If rain cancels the show, Sept. 1 is the makeup date, organizers said.