Knoxville's Boomsday Kicks Off Labor Day Weekend

Aug 29, 2011, 12:07 p.m.

Known as the nation's largest Labor Day weekend fireworks show, the 24th annual Boomsday Festival in Knoxville kicks off Sept. 4.

KNOXVILLE, TN — Known as the nation's largest Labor Day weekend fireworks show, the 24th annual Boomsday Festival in Knoxville kicks off Sept. 4.

"Building on 24 years of success, Boomsday will once again ignite the skies of Knoxville with the nation's largest fireworks display on Labor Day weekend," said Kim Bumpas, senior vice president of sales and marketing for the Knoxville Tourism and Sports Corporation. "Over the years, Boomsday has evolved into Knoxville's signature event, bringing more than 400,000 visitors to Knoxville's riverfront for a day of fun and excitement. This year's event will entertain attendees like never before with the new fireworks launch location and new jaw-dropping effects that will stretch over the Tennessee River."

Due to renovations on Henley Bridge, the Boomsday fireworks launch location will take place on Railroad Bridge over the Tennessee River in downtown Knoxville. The Railroad Bridge is just west of the Henley Bridge on Neyland Drive.

Boomsday festivities kick off at 1 p.m. with entertainment and food throughout the afternoon. This year's festival will feature a Family Fun Zone with inflatables and games; live entertainment on the Daystar Production Stage showcasing live music entertainment from more than 10 bands; Little Debbie; and other activities and contests. Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.

New additions to this year's Boomsday include:

o Dollywood - During the fireworks show, Dollywood will make a big announcement. The attraction will also give away prizes at their booth during the festival.

o Rib Eating Contest "RibDonkulous" presented by Calhoun's

o Boomsday Bandz - The Boomsday Bandz is a collectable armband that will offer discounts and promotions to several local businesses such as Dollywood, Bath Fitter, King College, Zaxby's and Dragonaire, the official Boomsday merchandise provider. The Bandz are on sale at all Pilot locations.

For more information on Boomsday 2011, call the festival hotline at 865-342-9191 or visit www.boomsday.org.