Breathtaking Fireworks
May 6, 2026
By Dian Berry
Lexington, South Carolina
Have you enjoyed — or at least heard about — the breathtaking fireworks show that takes place on Lake Murray each year?
Lake Murray’s Independence Day Celebration is a highly anticipated event, featuring a fireworks display often touted as the largest in South Carolina.
What many may not realize is that the display is provided free for all to enjoy, thanks to the work of the staff at Capital City Lake Murray Country. The Capital City Lake Murray Country Regional Tourism Board (CCLMC), a 501(c)(6) organization, promotes the Capital City/Lake Murray Country region of South Carolina.
This small but mighty organization raises funds for the fireworks display by hosting the annual Taste of Lake Murray. The “Taste,” held each March, features an evening of food from restaurants across the Midlands, along with a raffle, auction and live music that keeps the dance floor full.
The Taste of Lake Murray was once again a highlight this spring. Thanks in large part to corporate sponsors, the event raised nearly $140,000, with a net of approximately $112,000. That total does not include the many staff hours required to plan and execute the event, nor the one-time reduced venue rental provided by the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Columbia.
At the same time, CCLMC is planning to spend more than $130,000 on the fireworks display for the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Having served on the board of CCLMC for several years, I have seen firsthand the exceptional work the staff does to promote the region and produce the Taste of Lake Murray — all for the sole purpose of supporting this signature fireworks display.
For many, the fireworks are the centerpiece of July Fourth celebrations. If you enjoy the show, please consider supporting the effort with a donation to CCLMC. Every dollar raised goes directly toward the fireworks.
Without continued support, the display may need to be scaled back — or could eventually disappear altogether.
As the nation marks its 250th anniversary, there is much to celebrate. And there is also much to appreciate. Capital City Lake Murray Country deserves a tremendous thank-you for making this tradition possible.
