Fireworks light the sky Friday night as thousands watched the biggest show of its kind in southern Missouri.
Sponsored by the Houston Lions Club and its partner, Houston Optimist Club, the fifth annual event drew a large crowd at the Houston Area Chamber of Commerce.
The night kick-started at 6 p.m. when Highway 101 took the stage – the first of two nationally known groups. At the same time, rides and games were in full swing at Southern Fun Carnival’s midway. Food was served by Gary Gasperson, a prize-winning cook who operates Backwoods Barbecue.
Shortly after 7:30, parachuters from Freefall Express followed the National Anthem by gliding to the ground accompanied by a flag that had flown over Iraq.
Exile entertained until 9:30, when a 30-minute free fireworks show set to music lit the night.