Lincoln City seeks public input on 2026 Fourth of July

LINCOLN CITY, Ore. — Lincoln City officials are seeking public input on how to mark the Fourth of July in 2026, coinciding with the nation’s 250th anniversary of independence, during a town hall meeting set for next month.

The session is scheduled for 6 p.m. Jan. 13 at the Lincoln City Community Center, 2150 NE Oar Place. City Council members want feedback on aspects such as whether to host a nighttime show, expand celebrations over multiple days and focus events in a specific area like Taft or spread them citywide, according to a city press release.

The invitation extends to residents and business owners, with time allotted for questions to councilors and staff.

The town hall follows a Dec. 2 special council meeting where members unanimously voted to let a contract deadline lapse with drone-show vendor Sky Elements, effectively scrapping plans for a repeat of the 2025 drone display that drew public criticism for being underwhelming and potentially harming tourism.

Residents at that meeting, including members of the Hilltop Patriots group and local contractor Jim Hoover, advocated for a return to traditional fireworks, citing lost visitor revenue and disappointment with the drones. Councilor Rick Mark echoed the sentiment, saying he was “disappointed” in last year’s show.

Councilors clarified the decision applied only to Sky Elements and did not rule out other drone providers or fireworks. Explore Lincoln City Executive Director Kim Cooper Findling highlighted permitting challenges for fireworks at the traditional Salishan Spit site due to protected wildlife, including nesting snowy plovers and harbor seals.

Alternative options discussed included partnering with Chinook Winds Casino or aligning with the Devils Lake Neighborhood Association’s planned July 3 fireworks.

“In 2026, the United States will be celebrating the 250th anniversary of American Independence,” the press release stated. “Lincoln City wants to be the backdrop where residents and visitors can come together to join in this historic celebration.”