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Fourth of July Fireworks Show Canceled In Cupertino Because Of Drought

CUPERTINO (CBS SF) The bombs will not be bursting in air over one Silicon Valley city this 4th of July. Cupertino is canceling its annual fireworks show because of drought concerns.

The annual 4th of July fireworks show is held at Cupertino High School. It's a popular community event.

"There's two really big family events and that's 4th of July fireworks and Santa Claus," Rick Kitson of the City of Cupertino told KPIX 5. "We hate losing fireworks."

But this week the show was cancelled after the school district regretfully denied the City's request to host the event. The reason: a hundred thousand gallons of water that would have to be sprayed on the sports fields to prevent damage to synthetic turf.

Lots of Cupertino residents are disappointed.

"I'm pretty sad about that, because that's the only party I normally have," said resident Eva Windarma.

One neighbor said she would rather see water used on lawns diverted to the show instead.

"I run and walk the neighborhood every day and see lots of watering that should be stopped before this is stopped. I mean, I think this is a little bit more important," a neighbor, only identified as Cathy, told KCBS.

Cupertino was one of the last places in Silicon Valley to host a fireworks display. Many other cities canceled events during the great recession.

KPIX called other Bay Area fireworks organizers and found no plans to cancel over fears of damaged turf.

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