For the first time in 40 years, Downtown might be rather still at sundown on July 3.

The traditional U.S. Bank fireworks show – and before that the First Wisconsin fireworks show –  usually draws tens of thousands of visitors to Milwaukee’s lakefront for an early Independence Day celebration but it might not return this year due to the lack of a major backer.

Last February, U.S. Bank announced that the 2018 display – which cost around $350,000 to put on – would be their last. No local businesses have committed to sponsoring the full cost of the event – although OnMilwaukee is considering championing an effort to get the Big Bang funded.

"After (U.S. Bank's) announcement last year, we immediately began talks with area businesses with the hope of keeping this great tradition alive, but now time is running out, and there’s a real possibility that the July 3 fireworks display may not return."

There is still time for businesses or donors to save this Milwaukee tradition. All tax deductible sponsorships and donations would go to the Greater Milwaukee Foundation-Parks Fund. Interested donors should contact Jay Burseth at (414) 257-8043 or jay.burseth@milwaukeecountywi.gov. 

Should a sponsor not step forward, OnMilwaukee will personally publish and push a gofundme.org to help make this special night live on.