Ford Fireworks along Detroit River launches June 24

The Ford Fireworks, the annual summertime display over the Detroit River, will launch on June 24, marking its 66th year, officials announced Thursday.

The fireworks, produced by The Parade Company, "one of the largest and most magnificent shows in America," will begin at 10 p.m., Parade Company officials said.

Sponsored by Ford Motor Co., this year's event is themed "Color the Sky with Sunshine."

"Ford is proud to be a longtime partner of The Parade Company and to support one of the most cherished events of the summer," said Mary Culler, president of the Ford Motor Company Fund. "We look forward to bringing everyone together again to celebrate and honor America, our great city and the people and communities that make Detroit so special."

The Parade Company selects the musical arrangement and works with Zambelli Fireworks to create the display, which is made up of more than 10,000 pyrotechnics that are visible for miles along the Detroit River, offering views from Hart Plaza, Belle Isle and along the international border shared with Windsor, Canada.

A rooftop party sponsored by Ford from 5:30-11 p.m. will feature live music with Your Generation in Concert, catering by Andiamo restaurant, with games and giveaways, officials said. Attendees are asked to respond by May 3. Tickets for the rooftop party will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Proceeds benefit the nonprofit Michigan Thanksgiving Parade Foundation.

Special live coverage will be broadcast on WDIV-TV (Ch. 4), and WJR-AM (760) and Paul W. Smith.

Information on show can be found at www.theparade.org or (313) 923-7400.

“The Ford Fireworks inspires awe and excitement in Detroit and well beyond, with a magnificent fireworks display lighting up a truly iconic American skyline,” said Tony Michaels, president & CEO of The Parade Company. “We are once again honored and privileged to work with the amazing team at Ford Motor Company to bring the people of Detroit and our region this incredible event for the 66th year.”

jaimery@detroitnews.com