Jul. 3--As far as Joanne Riley was concerned, doing without the fireworks just wasn't an option.

She's been hearing a lot about communities scaling back or outright canceling their Fourth of July fireworks demonstrations this year. With the economy in its current condition, they've reached the conclusion they just can't afford the luxury this year.

But Riley, president of the Cultural Alliance of York, believes there are too many reasons for fireworks this year.

First of all, she feels it's important to pay tribute to the community's veterans. Also, a downer such as the recession means people could use the uplift of a great fireworks display that much more.

And last but not least, there's an important anniversary to celebrate -- her organization's.

In March, the Cultural Alliance turned 10. Riley said this year's event at the York Expo Center will highlight that milestone.

"I'm so excited, I can't begin to tell you," Riley said.

The Cultural Alliance's mission is to support cultural institutions and events in York County. Beneficiaries have included the York Symphony Orchestra, the Strand-Capitol performing Arts Center and York Little Theatre.

The orchestra co-sponsors the annual display, along with the Cultural Alliance and The Bon-Ton. The program will include more than fireworks, though.

Riley said events start at 7:30 p.m., with a presentation of colors by the 11th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Fife and Drum Corps.

After that, the York Symphony

Orchestra will play, with performances by both the York Youth Symphony for high school students and the York Junior Symphony for younger children.

Riley said the symphonic music performances tie in well with the Cultural Alliance's mission, because people who might not ordinarily have sought it out will be exposed to it.

And finally, after a performance of the "1812 Overture," the fireworks should be ready to start by around 9:20 p.m., Riley said.

If you go

What: Concert and fireworks

Where: York Expo Center, 334 Carlisle Ave., West Manchester Township.

When: Tonight -- concert begins at 7:30; fireworks begin at 9:20

Music: The York Symphony, York Youth Symphony and York Junior Symphony

Rain date: Sunday

Other fireworks displays

Here are a few of the other fireworks displays happening today:

--- Jacobus Community Park, South Main Street, Jacobus, www.jacobuspa.com. Fireworks at dusk today. Rain date Sunday.

--- Northeastern Communities Independence Day Celebration, 865 Locust Point Road, Conewago Township, York County. 3 to 9:30 p.m. today with entertainment 3 to 6 p.m. and 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Fireworks at 9:45 p.m. Rain date is Sunday.

--- Hanover Independence Day fireworks, Moul Field off Middle Street, Hanover. Fireworks start at approximately 9:30 p.m. today.

For a full list of local fireworks displays, go to flipsidepa.com.

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