Usually, the Fourth of July fireworks in Dillard dazzle the crowds who gather to park and sit along U.S. 441 on the northern end of Rabun County.
Not this year.
By 10 p.m., onlookers complained about the dismal display they waited hours to see.
“The crowds gathered. Waited. And waited. Finally, a few fireworks. More waiting. About four rockets blasted in a row. Then nothing,” said one disappointed onlooker, Danny Young.
Stunned and confused, the crowd slowly left after the short, five-minute display. Soon after, social media was abuzz with comments and questions about what happened.
What did happen?
The Dillard House has provided fireworks free of charge to the community every year for decades. Louise Dillard tells Now Habersham that Munnerlyn Pyrotechnics, which was in charge of this year’s display, experienced a computer malfunction. That prevented the fireworks from launching.
The company offered to reschedule. A spokesperson for the Dillard House says the Fire Marshal approved moving the fireworks show to July 6.
In a social media post, the Dillard House invited the community to come and enjoy “the best fireworks show ever on Saturday!”
“We are deeply sorry for the interruption and appreciate the support of all our guests and the local community,” Dillard tells Now Habersham.
Given the years of free memory-making moments the Dillards and their iconic restaurant, The Dillard House, have provided the community, many, though disappointed by Thursday’s events, struck an understanding tone on social media.
“It was still a great afternoon with family and neighbors; better luck next year!” wrote Regina Holbrook.
Leisa Wall said, “It was not in your control! Thank you for many years of excellent fireworks over the years! We had a great time with family!”
