Two-hundred and fifty years after&nbsp;the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 to George Washington’s historic crossing of the Delaware River during the Revolutionary War, generations of Americans have continued to honor the country’s history every Fourth of July.&nbsp;

As families in Western Kansas prepare to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary with cookouts, parades and fireworks lighting up the night sky, local officials are reminding residents to safely enjoy the holiday while following community firework regulations and designated discharge times. 

Times are listed below for surrounding areas:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/6/1782414840910.png" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALIN HETT Hays PostTwo-hundred and fifty years after&nbsp;the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 to George Washington’s historic crossing of the Delaware River during the Revolutionary War, generations of Americans have continued to honor the country’s history every Fourth of July.&nbsp;As families in Western Kansas prepare to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary with cookouts, parades and fireworks lighting up the night sky, local officials are reminding residents to safely enjoy the holiday while following community firework regulations and designated discharge times. Times are listed below for surrounding areas:<ul>
 <li>City of Hays: July 2-4, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.</li><li>City of Ellis: July 3-4, 9 a.m. to midnight</li><li>City of Victoria: July 4, 8 a.m. to midnight</li><li>City of WaKeeney: July 3 and July 5, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. and July 4, 9 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. </li><li>Ellis County unincorporated areas: July 2-4, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.</li>
 </ul>

Times to set off fireworks for Independence Day