LISBON — This year’s Lisbon Fireworks celebration on Thursday will mark the 250th birthday of the USA with music, games, food and fun — and lots and lots of water to keep attendees hydrated.

“There’s not much we can do as far as shade,” Lisbon Fireworks Committee Chairperson Judy Noel said.

But she said there will be golf carts loaded with water, the West Point Lions Club will be there with water, there will be plenty of food stands with drinks available and the fireworks committee will have water for sale at their stand.

An extreme heat warning is in effect until Friday night with temperatures in the high 90s in Columbiana County, but the skies will be clear with no rain expected when the fireworks launch at dusk.

The schedule of events and a map for parking at the Columbiana County Fairgrounds are detailed on the Lisbon Fireworks Facebook page, with Gate A open at Lee Street, which is recommended for handicapped parking, the walk-in gate at Morris Street open and parking allowed from the Vista Drive and Saltwell Road entrances and campground parking allowed near Gate D. Gates B and C will be closed and off limits. Spectators will sit on blankets or chairs on the hillsides with a clear view of the main stage.

Last year’s inaugural fireworks at the fairgrounds attracted a crowd of 4,000, but with this being the 250th anniversary of America, Noel is expecting a lot more people.

“We’re expecting a huge crowd and we’ve got some great entertainment,” she said. “We want to keep the unity in community.”

Food trucks will start around 2 p.m. and have quite a variety of offerings.

She also said, though, that attendees are allowed to bring their own pop and water and food items if they choose.

For the kids, there will be inflatables and the Lisbon Class of 2029 is handling the games. Kids can spin a wheel at the Fireworks Committee tent to win a prize. They’ll also have water balls and water blasters in the children’s area. Noel said the biggest goal is to put smiles on the kids’ faces, noting that every child will walk away with a prize when they spin the wheel.

For the adults, they’ll have axe throwing and the cornhole tournament will begin at 5 p.m., with a $20 team buy-in and registration on Facebook. Tickets for the 50/50 will be $1 each and this year’s Lisbon Fireworks T-shirts will be on sale for $15 each.

The schedule kicks off with the opening remarks at 4 p.m. by local veteran Roger Bacon, who was inducted into the Ohio Military Hall of Fame in 2019 and DJ Jason Barnes. Jack & the Cadavers take the main stage at 4:15 p.m., then Rob Covert at 5:45 p.m., recognition of the donors at 7:30 p.m., Chris Higbee Band at 7:45 p.m., the 50/50 cash drawing at 9:30 p.m. and Jeannie Arnoto singing the National Anthem at 9:45 p.m. and then the fireworks. Strolling visits will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. by Elsa, Chase and Rumi.

The cost for the fireworks show is $20,000, all covered by donations from businesses and individuals. Donations can be made at the committee tent. Prestige Promotions is coordinating the fireworks. Besides Noel, committee members include secretary and Lisbon Mayor Peter Wilson, treasurer Stephanie Malik, Councilwomen Linda Donnalley and Susan Temple, and Lesa Gray and Norma Welsh. Agencies working behind the scenes include Jim Davis of Prestige Promotions, Columbiana County Fair Board, Community Action Agency of Columbiana County, Lisbon Fire Department, Lisbon Police Department and North Star Critical Care.

The police department is providing the security and North Star Critical Care will be on standby.

For a list of donors, visit the Lisbon Fireworks Facebook page.

Amanda Amato, RN, Health Services Administrator at the Columbiana County Health District encourages residents to enjoy the 4th of July safely this year by following these heat safety tips:

— Stay hydrated, drink plenty of fluids even if not thirsty. Remember sugary drinks and coffee do not provide the same level of hydration as water.

— Stay in the shade or an air conditioned place as much as possible.

— Wear loose, lightweight clothing. Cotton and linen are great fibers that naturally move heat and moisture away from your body.

— Limit your outdoor activity during peak heat hours (usually noon-3p.m.).

— Never leave anyone (or pet) unattended in a vehicle, even with the windows cracked.

— Don’t forget the sunscreen.

To learn more, visit the Columbiana County Health District Facebook page.

mgreier@mojonews.com