Rainy Bradenton Area River Regatta ends with rainbow fireworks

BRADENTON -- After a Saturday filled with rain at the second annual Bradenton River Regatta, the fireworks show literally ended it with a rainbow.

The 15-minute fireworks show was similar and different from the inaugural show last year.

It was set to popular music, including "Shut Up and Dance with Me" by Walk the Moon, "Wildest Dreams" by Taylor Swift, the Star Spangled Banner and the Star Wars theme song by John Williams.

"These fireworks are set by the second to a music background," said Mike Fetchko, Integrated Marketing Strategy president and regatta organizer.

The highlight of the show was red, yellow and green fireworks arching over the Green Bridge like a rainbow to the tune of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" by Israel Kamakawiwo'Ole.

"That is something really special that hasn't been seen in a long time," said Mike Simmons, a representative for Zambelli International, who put on the fireworks show. Simmons said it was his favorite part of the show.

Fireworks were set off from two different boats on Manatee River as well as from the Green Bridge. Simmons said the bombardment included more than 2,000 shells.

Fetchko wouldn't disclose how much ISM paid for the fireworks.

"We're getting a New York-

sized show for a Bradenton price," Fetchko said. He said they frequently work with Zambelli for their events.

Music was chosen by regatta promoters, and Simmons said they typically give a rough track based on taste and popular music of the time and choose specifics in ongoing discussions. Last year's songs included "Let it Go" from "Frozen," Pharrell Williams' "Happy," and Swift's "Shake it Off."

The crowd was small compared with last year, many driven from the event by the cold and the rain. Simmons and Fetchko said they were happy the fireworks show returned after a warm reception last year.

"We're really proud to have their showmanship back in Bradenton," Fetchko said.

Kate Irby, Herald online/political reporter, can be reached at 941-745-7055. You can follow her on Twitter @KateIrby

This story was originally published February 6, 2016 at 11:28 PM with the headline "Rainy Bradenton Area River Regatta ends with rainbow fireworks ."