WPOA Fireworks Campaign Surpasses Goal, Committee Advances Plan for New Barge Fleet and 2026 Celebration
Lake Wawasee, Indiana — The Wawasee Property Owners Association announced that its one-time capital campaign to replace aging fireworks barges has surpassed its goal and is moving into fabrication planning for a safer, higher-capacity fleet that will anchor the lake’s 2026 celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
As of September 5, the campaign has raised $410,122. That total includes a Founders Matching Fund of $216,000 from twelve Founders, exceeding the original $175,000 match goal, and $194,122 from more than 400 families, homeowners’ associations, and local businesses, surpassing the community goal of $175,000.
The WPOA Fireworks Barge Committee has met weekly for the past two months, reviewing twelve prospective fabricators, receiving six formal bids, scoring each proposal, conducting reference calls, and selecting a preferred fabricator through a competitive process. Based on pricing and value, the committee voted to expand the project from ten to twelve barges and to apply any remaining funds to a one-time enhancement of the 2026 fireworks program.
The committee will present its recommendation to the full WPOA Board on Saturday, September 13. If approved, WPOA will proceed with fabrication of twelve new barges while remaining under the planned $350,000 budget. A prototype water test is scheduled to validate performance and safety before full fabrication begins.
“This is a big win for Lake Wawasee,” said Chris Campbell, WPOA Board Member and Chair of Wawasee Fireworks. “Our competitive process identified a preferred fabricator that meets our standards for quality, safety, and value, and our community’s generosity pushed this campaign over the top. We are on track for a 2026 celebration worthy of the lake we love.”
“The fireworks bring our entire community together,” said Kay Young, WPOA Board President. “On behalf of the Board, thank you to everyone who gave, and a special thanks to the Founders behind the matching challenge. Your leadership ensures a safer platform and an unforgettable Wawasee 250 celebration.”
As the first Fireworks Founder to step up, Jim and Pat Marcuccilli of Piers 250 and 251 shared, “Every Fourth of July, our family and friends gather on the lake for hot dogs and laughter and, when Kate Smith takes the mic, the pure magic of her voice. It is one of our dearest traditions, and we are proud to support replacing the barges that make the fireworks possible.”
WPOA also recognized the dedication of the volunteer committee guiding this effort. “Our committee has worked tirelessly over the past two months, meeting weekly to evaluate designs, bids, and chart the best course forward,” said Campbell. “Their diligence and commitment to what is best for Lake Wawasee are what have put us in position to move into fabrication and plan an extraordinary Wawasee 250 celebration.” Committee members are Chris Campbell, Chair (Pier 340-E), Mark Eaton (Pier 123), Scott J. Laughner (Pier 748), and William Ruddell (Pier 569).
Without replacing the barges, the large 8- and 10-inch shells that define the Wawasee show would have disappeared after 2025. With a new fleet approved and funded, not only can those shells continue, but the 2026 program will also introduce massive 12-inch shells. Combined with a twelve-barge layout that improves lake-wide coverage and an expanded finale designed for America’s 250th, the show will set a new standard for Wawasee fireworks.
Lake Wawasee’s Commemorative Banner for America’s 250th Celebration
The WPOA will lead the community’s observance of America’s 250th under the Wawasee 250 banner, aligned with the national America 250 initiative. The association is coordinating with the Wawasee Flotilla and inviting additional partners around the lake, with more announcements expected in early 2026.
For updates and donor recognition, visit wawaseefireworks.com. Donations above fabrication needs will support a one-time enhancement of the 2026 fireworks celebrating America’s 250th.