PEORIA/EAST PEORIA, Ill. – The 2025 Choose Greater Peoria Red, White and Boom was a rousing success.
The annual Independence Day celebration drew hundred of thousands of people to the Peoria and East Peoria riverfronts.
Law enforcement officials urged the crowd to hydrate and seek shade during the 90 degree temperatures, although no one had to worry about rain and storms this year.
The evening’s festivities began with a flyover by a 182nd Airlift Wing C-130 Hercules aircraft.
A highlight of the evening was Victor Solomon singing the national anthem just prior to the fireworks.
Solomon, who was born in Chicago and raised in Peoria, has gained fame after being a contestant on “The Voice” and “American Idol.”
“it’s been an incredible ride,” Solomon told 1470 & 100.3 WMBD. “God has truly been blessing me. I’m just taking it a day at a time and being patient, waiting for Him to continue to open doors for me. I’m excited to see where it continues to go.”
Being raised in Peoria, Solomon is no stranger to Choose Greater Peoria Red, White and Boom.
“Just coming out here with family and friends and seeing the fireworks, the food, the music the atmosphere. Just that Peoria vibe is what I like most about it,” Solomon said.
Solomon attended Peoria Public Schools and is a Peoria High alum. He has now relocated to Los Angeles.
Following the fireworks, the work continued for law enforcement and first responders directing drivers and pedestrians away from the riverfronts.
Peoria Fire Chief Shawn Sollberger, when asked what makes a successful event for him, said, “Success is if we have minimal to no issues downtown. We keep traffic flowing, we keep the community safe, the fireworks go off and everyone has a good time.”
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