In a press release this week, Weber State University announced this year’s Lindquist Family Symphony Pops Concert — set for Sunday from 9-11 p.m. at the Ada Lindquist Plaza on the WSU campus — will feature a drone show with 500 drones capping off the night instead of the traditional fireworks show.

“Shifting from the event’s traditional fireworks show to drones means audiences can still enjoy an unforgettable evening, while aligning with efforts throughout the state to minimize fire risk,” the release said.

WSU Public Relations Director Rachel Badali told the Standard-Examiner in an email that the Lindquist Family Symphony Pops Concert is a huge part of Ogden summers and has been for close to half a century.

“Over the decades, this event has become a really beloved tradition for the community,” she said. “You can literally see the excitement and anticipation building as people start laying out their blankets or chairs the evening before. It has all the elements of an unforgettable summer night. There’s the New American Philharmonic Orchestra, the Cannoneers of the Wasatch, snacks and treats, a breathtaking show in the sky, and the opportunity to enjoy a beautiful night with one another.”

The release notes that the concert itself will get under way at 9 p.m. and will have several returning elements in its 47th year.

“Community members will experience the New American Philharmonic’s majestic rendition of Tchaikovsky’s ‘1812 Overture,’ while the booms of 16 cannons, set off by the Cannoneers of the Wasatch, ring out,” the release said. “Around 10 p.m., the night will conclude with illuminated drones flying in sync to a soundtrack. Food trucks and other vendors will also be on site.”

Badali said the switch to a drone show comes down to the same conditions that prompted an expanded fireworks ban across the state over the Fourth of July discharge period.

“Looking around the state, everyone is pulling together to minimize risk during such a devastating fire season,” she said. “Changing from fireworks to drones aligns with the efforts happening throughout our communities. With drones, this event will maintain the magic it’s known for. Audiences can lay out their blankets and set up their chairs on the grassy grounds around Ada Lindquist Plaza, listening to music and getting that collective experience of looking up at a show in the beautiful night sky.”

She said whether they will stick with drones or go back to fireworks in the future when conditions improve will depend on the audience.

“Changing to drones this year is a proactive step to keep the university and our neighbors safe while still putting on an unforgettable show,” she said. “We’re excited to learn how the audience responds to this brand-new experience, and that can help with planning for future shows.”