Featured photo: Yellow Springs News
At the June 17, 2025 Yellow Springs Village Council meeting, Phillip O’Rourke, Executive Director of the Yellow Springs Chamber of Commerce, addressed an issue close to the heart of the community: the long-term financial sustainability of the Village’s annual 4th of July celebration.
As the only organization currently responsible for funding this cherished community event, the Chamber expressed both pride in continuing the tradition and concern for its future. O’Rourke emphasized that while the Chamber has been honored to take the lead, sustaining the event requires more than one group’s efforts, it needs consistent partnership and yearly financial support from both community invested organizations and the broader community.
“Without shared responsibility and committed funding,” said O’Rourke, “this event is at risk of disappearing.”
The mission of the Yellow Springs Chamber of Commerce is “to promote the economic health and vitality of the Yellow Springs area by supporting businesses, encouraging tourism, and fostering community collaboration.” While organizing the 4th of July celebration aligns with the Chamber’s commitment to fostering community, the continued funding and operational responsibility is a broader civic issue. Ensuring the future of this event should reflect a shared commitment from both local government and residents.
Across the country, municipalities that have embraced community-driven models for their Independence Day celebrations have seen meaningful returns. In towns similar in size and spirit to Yellow Springs, local surveys show that 4th of July events lead to a 20–30% increase in tourism-related revenue over the holiday weekend. More importantly, studies from the National League of Cities indicate that public celebrations like these significantly improve community cohesion, increase volunteerism, and foster a greater sense of civic pride.
By creating a shared model for planning and funding the 4th of July event, Yellow Springs can not only ensure its continuation but also reinforce the values that make the community special; unity, connection, and purpose.
During the council meeting, O’Rourke read a letter that underscored the urgency of support. That letter, included below, serves as both a call to action and a heartfelt reminder of what’s at stake.
Read the full letter presented to the Village Council below.
Dear Yellow Springs Community,
There is something magical about the 4th of July in Yellow Springs. It’s more than just a celebration; it’s a reunion, a reminder, and a reflection of who we are as a village. It’s the day we come together, adorned in red, white, and blue, to cheer on our neighbors in the parade, gather at Gaunt Park for food and festivities, and look up for a spectacular fireworks display. But today, I must be honest with you: this beloved tradition is at risk.
For the past several years, the Yellow Springs Chamber of Commerce has proudly taken on the financial responsibility of ensuring that the 4th of July remains a vibrant and inclusive event. The fireworks display alone costs $10,000 each year. While we are deeply grateful to community members who “pass the bucket” at Gaunt Park and to our partners – YSPD, Miami Township Fire & Rescue, and Public Works – for their generous in-kind support, the reality is simple: the Chamber alone can not solely sustain the cost of this celebration.
This year, we are incredibly thankful to Yellow Springs Community Foundation and US Bank-Yellow Springs, who have stepped forward with a $3,000 Gaunt Sponsorship to help fund the celebration. Their leadership matters, and we hope it inspires others. But if this event is to thrive into the future, it needs more help and specific financial commitment. We need our Village Council, our organizations, and individuals who love this community to stand beside us, not just in spirit, but in real dollars.
This is not just a fireworks show. It is a homecoming for many. It’s the heartbeat of summer. It’s the moment alumni return, families gather, and memories are made. If we don’t invest in it today, we risk losing it tomorrow.
So, here’s the ask:
- Council: Please consider contributing financially to what is deemed a signature event and preserve this village tradition.
- Community members and organizations: Join us for the celebration—decorate your vehicles, ride in the parade, bring your spirit, and support however you can.
- Everyone: Visit the events page on yellowspringsohio.org to make a donation or learn how to get involved.
This year’s celebration:
- Friday, July 4th
- Parade: 12:00 PM (Line up at 11:00 AM outside Miami Township Fire-Rescue)
- Festivities at Gaunt Park: Begin at 6:00 PM
- Fireworks: At dark
- Midnight Swim: Weather permitting
AGAIN- I am so grateful for the partnership that we have with the Village for this celebration. We ask our entire community – and specifically Council – to now give thoughtful consideration to its future. With shared investment, you can ensure this cherished celebration continues for generations to come.
With deep gratitude.
Phillip O’Rourke
Executive Director
Yellow Springs Chamber of Commerce
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Note: Other individuals, organizations, and businesses have partnered as sponsors since this address was delivered. View here.
