It’s a tradition that’s more than 30 years old in the City of Troy.

On Thursday, the City of Troy and Troy Parks and Recreation Department will host a July 4 fireworks show that is free to the public.

“Every year, we learn more and more cities are eliminating their fireworks shows, but we are very thankful that the mayor and council continue to provide this event for the people of Troy,” said Dan Smith, director of Troy Parks and Recreation.

The show began when Bo Gaylard and his family would climb on top of the concession stand and shoot off fireworks at the Starlight Drive-in across from where Santa Fe is now located.

When Gaylard began working with the City of Troy’s Parks and Recreation Department, he partnered with the city to prepare the public event.

Fireworks are now launched from the campus of Charles Henderson High School on George Wallace Drive in Troy and one of the preferred watching spots is Veteran’s Memorial Stadium, although the show can be seen from many areas in Troy.

Smith said the fireworks show will last about 15 to 20 minutes and will begin between 8:30 and 9 p.m.

Smith recommends arriving at Veteran’s Memorial Stadium or nearby spots by about 7:30 to make sure there is time to park and be settled before the show.

“It is one of the largest crowds in that area,” Smith said. “There are thousands and thousands of people, not just in the stadium, but outside and in all directions.”

This year’s show will feature some new shells and is estimated to cost about $16,000.