PITTSBURGH — The EQT Flashes of Freedom Fireworks were the focal point of Saturday night's Fourth of July celebration in Pittsburgh, capping off a day during which thousands of people flocked to Point State Park for the EQT Pittsburgh Three Rivers Regatta.
The dazzling display produced by Pyrotecnico illuminated the already beautiful Pittsburgh skyline and paid tribute to all those who have and continue to serve the United States of America.
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River events may have been canceled for the regatta, but that did not put a damper on the abundance of land activities going on throughout the day Saturday leading up to the fireworks.
"It's tradition. The kids like the dog show, the monster BMX show at North Shore. Might as well keep the tradition going despite the boats not being here," said Hookstown, Beaver County, resident Eric Killmeyer, who attended the regatta with family.
Bill Camp helped to coordinate the Frisbee dog show.
"These dogs have to be special. We rescue them, we look for certain attributes," said Camp.
Still, others were disappointed by the cancellation of the river events.
"We came for the regatta hoping to see boats, but they told us they were canceled. We will still go and see the Pirates for three days, that's worthwhile," said Len Crilley. "There are still a lot of other things to do. We like coming over for the arts and different things, but it's still good. But we had hoped to see the boats."
Recreational boating was still permitted, but River Rescue and Homeland Security officials urged boaters to use caution.
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In addition to the dog and BMX shows, regatta patrons could enjoy music, the ferris wheel and check out elaborate sand sculptures. There was also an abundance of food to indulge in.
"Very proud to be an American and proud to be a part of a big citywide event where people come from everywhere and pile into this little area and celebrate," said Eric Heck.
A C-130 flyover in the area caught the attention of many.
"It's really amazing to see a plane that large this close by. It was great," said Kay Balderose.
On Saturday night, eyes once again turned to the sky to take in the sights of the Flashes of Freedom Fireworks produced by Pyrotecnico.
Earlier in the day, communities throughout the Pittsburgh-area celebrated Independence Day with parades.
In Brentwood, thousands of people attended a Fourth of July parade that has been a tradition for 100 years.
Over in Latrobe, 89-year-old World War II veteran Paul Krinock served as the grand marshal for the community’s parade.
Krinock was wounded while serving his country and helped save 12 other wounded men trapped near Brittany, France.
"They said, 'You're up for the Silver Star.' I said, 'What for?' They said, 'Those 12 guys that were trapped, they got out safe and they're all good,'" said Krinock.
Although he has been out of the military for more than 70 years, Krinock said he was thrilled to be recognized at the parade for his service.