By KRISTIN HOGANS

The Natchez Democrat

NATCHEZ — Lighting fireworks at your house was discouraged Wednesday due to dry conditions, but that didn’t stop quite a few faces from lighting up along the bluff during the community-wide fireworks show.

Many people made the holiday a family affair with food and lawn chairs in the back of pickup trucks.

Some said they came for the excitement and others just to spend quality time with their families.

Natchez native Eric James, who now resides in Jackson, said he decided to bring his family out for the event. James said he had watching fireworks over the Mississippi River since he was a kid. James loves the “snap, crackle and pop,” he said.

Jaylin Gibson, 16, said her holiday was spent with family and friends.

“I had a very old, good, jolly time,” Gibson said.

As the fireworks began to get bigger, faces began to light up Wednesday night.

“Fireworks are romantic to me,” said Kyaira Todd, 16, who recently moved from Natchez to Houston, Texas, but was home for the holiday.

Todd said the show is a tradition for her and she comes faithfully every year.

Many young children ran up to the gate to get a closer view, while others screamed and ran the opposite direction.

Terrence Bailey, 17, said he, his brother Ja’Coby Gaines, 4, and cousin, Kaleb Bailey, 6, come every year.

As Gaines jumped in excitement of the fireworks, Kaleb said, “This is the greatest Fourth of July.”

April Bass of Natchez said she brings her kids every year as well. Bass said she expected nothing less than previous year’s for the show.

Jay Folse of Baton Rouge said this was his family’s first time at the event. Folse said they were in town and read about the show, so decided to come out and celebrate.

Caiden Buckner, 6, said this was his second year at the fireworks show.

“Fireworks light up, why wouldn’t I like it?” Buckner said.

Many people said the show was a great success, and they enjoy coming back year after year.

“It’s like Hollywood,” Terrence said.