Explanation
BACKGROUND: This legislation authorizes the Director of the Department of Recreation and Parks to enter a contract with Red, White & Boom, Inc. as a presenting sponsor to assist in defraying the costs associated with organizing, promoting, and executing Red, White & BOOM! 2025
For over 40 years, Red, White & Boom, Inc. has united the Columbus community as the largest fireworks event in the Midwest, attracting 450,000+ attendees annually and celebrating the spirit of patriotism, togetherness, and civic pride.
The event generates $15M+ in annual economic benefit, has contributed $200M+ to Columbus and Franklin County over its history, and creates employment for 3,000+ workers on event day
Red, White & Boom, Inc. provides a free, safe, and family-friendly experience, fostering a sense of shared tradition and cultural connection while reinforcing Columbus's reputation as a premier destination for large-scale community events.
Despite being privately funded with millions of digital impressions and Ohio's highest-rated summer TV broadcast, the event faces rising costs and requires additional city funding to ensure its continued success as a Columbus tradition worth investing in
This ordinance appropriates funding for event support in 2025 only, and does not represent a commitment to provide financial support in any future year. However, in receiving this one-time payment, Red, White & Boom, Inc. understands the value and importance the City attributes to this annual event, and Red, White & Boom, Inc. has committed to making all reasonable efforts to ensure the event continues to be staged in downtown Columbus in the future.
Principal Parties:
Red, White & Boom, Inc.
774 South Roosevelt Ave
Bexley Oh. 43209
Shawn Verhoff - shawn@elmwoodllc.com
Contract Compliance Number: 004781
Emergency Justification: Emergency action is requested as it is immediately necessary to transfer and appropriate funds necessary and make expenditure in time for summer eve...
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