HomeMy WebLinkAbout#14 - Approve City Sponsored Fireworks Display STAFF REPORT
DATE: August 6, 2025
REGULAR
TO: Mayor and Councilmembers
FROM: Nicole Miller, City Administrator and Dustin Kalis, Fire Chief
ITEM: 100th Year Anniversary Fireworks / Drone Display
CORE STRATEGIES:
☒ Vibrant, inclusive, connected community ☐ Efficient, reliable, innovative services ☐ Responsive, transparent, adaptive governance ☐ Balanced Finances now and future ☐ Managed Growth
BACKGROUND:
City staff was asked review options for a fireworks display as part of the 100th year anniversary
celebration. Staff has also included information on a drone show an alternative to fireworks. Staff
contacted vendors that are used by neighboring cities for firework display (Woodbury, Stillwater,
Oakdale, Hudson) and drone show (Cottage Grove) proposals.
The City Attorney has confirmed that city can expend funds on a fireworks or drone show.
ISSUE BEFORE COUNCIL:
What is the preferred display preference of Council?
PROPOSAL DETAILS/ANALYSIS:
Fire Department staff have evaluated both types of displays:
Firework Display
The Minnesota State Fire Code will dictate the majority of what can and cannot be done regarding
fireworks.
• Launch site and required spectator distances is based on the size of fireworks being used
(70 feet/inch/shell
• Sectator distances from the launch site may need to be adjusted day of based on wind
speed.
• Licensed contractors for the display, including city issued permits.
• A standby fire crew is required for the event.
• Several required site inspections before and after the show.
• Road closures and crowd managers (in case of a launch malfunction or fallout).
• If winds exceed 15 mph, the show would be postponed.
The firework vendor has submitted 3 different shoot sites for review:
• Site A (Multishot cake show)
o 13-15 minute show
o Lions Park Baseball Field
o Ballfield fence line as the safety perimeter
o Crowd can be almost a full 360 degrees to watch the show
o In proximity to the rest of the 100 year celebration event on Laverne Avenue.
o Fire Department and vendor preferred site
• Site B (Shells up to 3”, and multishot cakes)
o VFW Baseball Field
o Majority of the crowd will be at Lions Park for the best viewing location.
o Spectator perimeter is increased due to the size of the shells proposed at this site,
limiting the number of spectators around the VFW ballfield.
• Site C (Multishot cake show)
o Open grass area south of the Fire Department
o Majority of the crowd can be in the open field to the West
o Would need approval from the school district for use of their field
o It is farther away from the central event location
Drone Show Display
Fairly new type of display show and not addressed by the fire code. A secured area, crowd
managers and other general event safety measures would still be necessary.
• 12-14 Minute Drone Light Show
• Site Survey, Safety Mitigation Meeting with City staff.
• Full Crew (Pilot, Operations, Crew Members) on Event Day from vendor.
• Restricted zones required: 150’ between the spectators and the launch space. City to
provide barricades, cones and caution tape to identify this area.
• Visual observers (provided by vendor) are in place monitoring airways and restricting on
foot access to area.
• Vendor will handle any additional permits from the FAA and/or local governing
• bodies to successfully perform safe drone operations
• Stage sound system is required for to project the audio soundtrack of the display.
Other considerations:
• Weather delay/cancelation and make-up date.
• Airport notification or approvals.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The cost for a 13-15 minute fireworks show is approximately $8,000 or $12,000 for a 18-20 minute
show. The vendor and fire department prefer Site A.
The cost for a 12-14 minute 200 drones show is approximately $17,500.
ATTACHMENTS:
• Fireworks and drone show quotes
Lake Elmo
September 5, 2025
Maximum Shell Size: 1.2”
NFPA 1123 Fallout Zone Radius: 84 ft (100’ pictured)
Shoot site Fallout zone NSpectatorsParking
21595 286th St
Belle Plaine, MN 56011
Cost:Sold to:Display Date:
Budget:City of Lake Elmo
Length:
Total Cost:
Summary Quantity Shots Ship to:
2.5" 0 0 City of Lake Elmo
3" 0 0
4" 0 0
5" 0 0
6" 0 0
8" 0 0
10" 0 0
Multishot 50 3356
Total 50 3356
Product ID Category Size Mfg Description Shots Quantity Shots Ext
A025-30G Cake 1"DOM/RES 25 Shot Green Peony Fan Cake 25 1 25
A025-30P Cake 1"DOM/RES 25 Shot Purple Peony Fan Cake 25 1 25
A025-30R Cake 1"DOM/RES 25 Shot Red Peony Fan Cake 25 1 25
A025-30Y Cake 1"DOM/RES 25 Shot Yellow Peony Fan Cake 25 1 25
A025-546 Cake 1"DOM/RES 25 Shot Blue Mines to Comets to Shells Fan Cake 25 1 25
A040-025 Cake 1"LID/RES 8X5 Fan Green Glitter & Crackling Crossette 40 1 40
A040-029 Cake 1"LID/RES 8X5 Fan Purple Peony & Silver Crossette 40 1 40
A080-317 Cake 1"LID/RES 10X8 Z Purple Peony w/Purple Tail 80 1 80
A100-211 Cake 1"DOM/RES 100 Shot Silver Strobe Willow w/Blue Tail Cake 100 1 100
A100-600 Cake 1"DOM/RES 100 Shot Red, White & Blue Tails to Titanium Report Fan Cake 100 1 100
A100-785 Cake 1"LID/RES 10X10 Z Green Tail Silver Crackling Stars 100 1 100
A150-224 Cake 1"LID/RES 15X10 Fan Peacock Exercise Color Tail & Blue Mines (w/G/R/G/W Stars)150 1 150
A210-706 Cake 1"LID/RES 210 Shot Blue Rhyme of Dancing 210 1 210
A300-096 Cake 1"LID/RES 300 Shot IVW Purple & Green & Red Scenery 300 1 300
A300-295 Cake 1"LID/RES 300 Shot O Purple Lemon & Seablue Scenery 300 1 300
C025-119 Cake 1"LID/RES 25 Shot Blue Peony w/Purple Tail 25 2 50
C025-132 Cake 1"LID/RES 25 Shot Purple Crackling Crossette 25 2 50
C025-242 Cake 1"LID/RES 25 Shot Golden & Silver Flowers 25 2 50
C025-341 Cake 1"LID/RES 25 Shot Green Brocade Crown w/Green Flower Tail 25 2 50
C025-6832 Cake 1.2" ST FX 25 Shot Red & Blue Peony W/Silver Palm Core Cake 25 2 50
C025-6850 Cake 1.2" ST FX 25 Shot Multicolor w/White Glitter Finale Cake 25 2 50
C025-753 Cake 1"DOM/RES 25 shot Fresh Colors Chrys 25 2 50
C036-282 Cake 1.2"DOM/RES 36 Shot Salute Cake 36 2 72
C036-6826 Cake 1" ST FX 36 Shot Lemon Peony w/White Glitter Cake 36 2 72
C036-6830 Cake 1" ST FX 36 Shot Red Peony W/White Glitter Cake 36 2 72
C049-135 Cake 1"LID/RES 49 Shot Pink Palm w/Silver Tail 49 1 49
C049-159 Cake 1"LID/RES 49 Shot Purple Chrys w/ Purple Tail 49 1 49
C049-244 Cake 1"LID/RES 49 Shot Color Chrys w/Whistling Tail 49 1 49
C049-271 Cake 1"LID/RES 49 Shot Blue Dahlia w/Blue Tail 49 1 49
C049-767 Cake 1"DOM/RES 49 Shot Red Crossette 49 1 49
C100-159 Cake 1"LID/RES 100 Shot Red/White/Blue Chrys 100 1 100
C100-173 Cake 1"LID/RES 100 Shot Colorful World 100 2 200
C100-220 Cake 1"DOM/RES 100 Shot Dahlia Peony & Crackle 100 1 100
C100-369 Cake 1"LID/RES 100 Shot Thunderking Salute w/Red White & Blue Tail 100 2 200
C100-759 Cake 1"DOM/RES 100 Shot Happiness 100 2 200
C100-811 Cake 1"LID/RES 100 Shot Silver Crown to Red or Green Stars 100 2 200
Total 3356
$8,000.00 Sept 5th, 2025
13-15 Minutes
$8,000.00
This quote is good for the entity listed as Sold To, and includes
all materials, equipment, certified operators, necessary
permits, and $5 million liability insurance.
Proposal
Proposal Date:
7/21/2025
1 of 1
Lake Elmo
September 5, 2025
Maximum Shell Size: 1.2”
NFPA 1123 Fallout Zone Radius: 84 ft (100’ pictured)
Shoot site Fallout zone NSpectators Parking
21595 286th St
Belle Plaine, MN 56011
Cost:Sold to:Display Date:
Budget:City of Lake Elmo
Length:
Total Cost:
Summary Quantity Shots Ship to:
2.5" 0 0 City of Lake Elmo
3"0 0
4"0 0
5"0 0
6"0 0
8"0 0
10" 0 0
Multishot 65 4765
Total 65 4765
Product ID Category Size Mfg Description Shots Quantity Shots Ext
A025-30G Cake 1"DOM/RES 25 Shot Green Peony Fan Cake 25 1 25
A025-30P Cake 1"DOM/RES 25 Shot Purple Peony Fan Cake 25 1 25
A025-30R Cake 1"DOM/RES 25 Shot Red Peony Fan Cake 25 1 25
A025-30Y Cake 1"DOM/RES 25 Shot Yellow Peony Fan Cake 25 1 25
A025-546 Cake 1"DOM/RES 25 Shot Blue Mines to Comets to Shells Fan Cake 25 1 25
A040-020 Cake 1"LID/RES 8X5 Fan Golden Crossette & Red Mines 40 1 40
A040-025 Cake 1"LID/RES 8X5 Fan Green Glitter & Crackling Crossette 40 1 40
A040-029 Cake 1"LID/RES 8X5 Fan Purple Peony & Silver Crossette 40 1 40
A080-317 Cake 1"LID/RES 10X8 Z Purple Peony w/Purple Tail 80 1 80
A100-036 Cake 1"DOM/RES 100 Shot Fan Silver Crackling Tail to Chrys Willow 100 1 100
A100-211 Cake 1"DOM/RES 100 Shot Silver Strobe Willow w/Blue Tail Cake 100 1 100
A100-600 Cake 1"DOM/RES 100 Shot Red, White & Blue Tails to Titanium Report Fan Cake 100 1 100
A100-785 Cake 1"LID/RES 10X10 Z Green Tail Silver Crackling Stars 100 1 100
A150-224 Cake 1"LID/RES 15X10 Fan Peacock Exercise Color Tail & Blue Mines (w/G/R/G/W Stars)150 1 150
A210-272 Cake 1"LID/RES 210 Shot X Purple & Orange Scenery 210 1 210
A210-418 Cake 1"LID/RES 210 Shot X Color To Time Rain 210 1 210
A210-706 Cake 1"LID/RES 210 Shot Blue Rhyme of Dancing 210 1 210
A300-096 Cake 1"LID/RES 300 Shot IVW Purple & Green & Red Scenery 300 1 300
A300-204 Cake 1"LID/RES 300 Shot X Pink & Lemon Scenery 300 1 300
A300-295 Cake 1"LID/RES 300 Shot O Purple Lemon & Seablue Scenery 300 1 300
C025-119 Cake 1"LID/RES 25 Shot Blue Peony w/Purple Tail 25 2 50
C025-132 Cake 1"LID/RES 25 Shot Purple Crackling Crossette 25 2 50
C025-136 Cake 1"LID/RES 25 Shot Variety Crossette 25 2 50
C025-242 Cake 1"LID/RES 25 Shot Golden & Silver Flowers 25 2 50
C025-341 Cake 1"LID/RES 25 Shot Green Brocade Crown w/Green Flower Tail 25 2 50
C025-6832 Cake 1.2" ST FX 25 Shot Red & Blue Peony W/Silver Palm Core Cake 25 2 50
C025-6836 Cake 1.2" ST FX 25 Shot Crackling Palmtree W/Crackling Tail Cake 25 2 50
C025-6850 Cake 1.2" ST FX 25 Shot Multicolor w/White Glitter Finale Cake 25 2 50
C025-753 Cake 1"DOM/RES 25 shot Fresh Colors Chrys 25 2 50
C025-801 Cake 1"LID/RES 25 Shot Red Time Rain w/Red Tail 25 2 50
C036-282 Cake 1.2"DOM/RES 36 Shot Salute Cake 36 2 72
C036-6826 Cake 1" ST FX 36 Shot Lemon Peony w/White Glitter Cake 36 2 72
C036-6830 Cake 1" ST FX 36 Shot Red Peony W/White Glitter Cake 36 2 72
C049-135 Cake 1"LID/RES 49 Shot Pink Palm w/Silver Tail 49 1 49
C049-159 Cake 1"LID/RES 49 Shot Purple Chrys w/ Purple Tail 49 1 49
C049-244 Cake 1"LID/RES 49 Shot Color Chrys w/Whistling Tail 49 1 49
C049-264 Cake 1"LID/RES 49 Shot Red to Silver Chrys 49 1 49
C049-271 Cake 1"LID/RES 49 Shot Blue Dahlia w/Blue Tail 49 1 49
$12,000.00 Sept 5th, 2025
18-20 Minutes
$12,000.00
This quote is good for the entity listed as Sold To, and includes
all materials, equipment, certified operators, necessary
permits, and $5 million liability insurance.
Proposal
Proposal Date:
7/21/2025
1 of 2
C049-767 Cake 1"DOM/RES 49 Shot Red Crossette 49 1 49
C100-159 Cake 1"LID/RES 100 Shot Red/White/Blue Chrys 100 1 100
C100-173 Cake 1"LID/RES 100 Shot Colorful World 100 2 200
C100-220 Cake 1"DOM/RES 100 Shot Dahlia Peony & Crackle 100 1 100
C100-258 Cake 1"LID/RES 100 Shot Color Flower Tail to Gold & Blue Dahlia 100 1 100
C100-292 Cake 1"LID/RES 100 Shot Silver Lion to Purple & Green Chrys 100 1 100
C100-369 Cake 1"LID/RES 100 Shot Thunderking Salute w/Red White & Blue Tail 100 2 200
C100-759 Cake 1"DOM/RES 100 Shot Happiness 100 2 200
C100-811 Cake 1"LID/RES 100 Shot Silver Crown to Red or Green Stars 100 2 200
C150-660 Cake 1"LID/RES 150 Shot Assorted Colors Chrys w/Coconut Pistil 150 1 150
Total 4765
2 of 2
Lake Elmo
September 5, 2025
Maximum Shell Size: 3”
NFPA 1123 Fallout Zone Radius: 210 ft (220’ pictured)
Shoot site Fallout zone NSpectators Parking
21595 286th St
Belle Plaine, MN 56011
Cost:Sold to:Display Date:
Budget:City of Lake Elmo
Length:
Total Cost:
Summary Quantity Shots Ship to:
2.5" 0 0 City of Lake Elmo
3" 158 298
4" 0 0
5" 0 0
6" 0 0
8" 0 0
10" 0 0
Multishot 39 2498
Total 197 2796
Product ID Category Size Mfg Description Shots Quantity Shots Ext
3-15680 Shell 3"DOM/RES Red Chrys & Gold Wave w/White Strobe Pistil & Red Wave Tail 1 4 4
3-15750 Shell 3"DOM/RES Red White & Blue Wave w/Red Wave Tail 1 4 4
3-15810 Shell 3"DOM/RES Variegated Chrys Gold Wave w/Tail 1 4 4
3-15880 Shell 3"DOM/RES Green & White Chrys & Gold Wave w/Red Pistil & Brocade Tail 1 4 4
3-15890 Shell 3"DOM/RES Red & White Chrys Gold Wave w/White Strobe Pistil w/Brocade Tail1 4 4
3-15900 Shell 3"DOM/RES Silver Wave Blue w/Crackle Pistil w/Red Wave Tail 1 4 4
3-15930 Shell 3"DOM/RES Silver Wave Green w/Strobe Gold Pistil w/Red Wave Tail 1 4 4
3-20444 Shell 3"DOM/RES Blue Peony w/Coco Palm Pistil & Brocade Tail 1 4 4
3-21570 Shell 3"DOM/RES Purple Peony to Popcorn Crackle w/Gold Strobe to Crackle Pistil & Brocade Tail1 4 4
3-21600 Shell 3"DOM/RES Orange Peony w/Red Wave Tail 1 4 4
3-30000 Shell 3"DOM/RES Kamuro Circle w/Green Pistil & Tail 1 4 4
3-40350 Shell 3"DOM/RES Magenta Dahlia w/Lemon Strobe Pistil w/Tail 1 4 4
3-40470 Shell 3"DOM/RES Colorful Pink Dahlia w/Tail 1 4 4
3-40650 Shell 3"DOM/RES Lemon & Violet Umbrella w/Tail 1 4 4
3-50010 Shell 3"DOM/RES White Strobe w/Red Wave Tail 1 4 4
3-50120 Shell 3"DOM/RES Red Strobe Peony w/Red Wave Tail 1 4 4
3-55140 Shell 3"LID/RES Silver Crackling Palm 1 4 4
3-55380 Shell 3"DOM/RES Double Crackle w/Crackling Willow Tail 1 4 4
3-58090 Shell 3"LID/RES Glittering Coconut Tree w/Crackling Tail 1 4 4
3-58180 Shell 3"LID/RES Red Time Rain Coconut Tree w/Red Tail 1 4 4
3-60350 Shell 3"LID/RES Red Strobe Willow w/Silver Tail 1 4 4
3-60370 Shell 3"DOM/RES Big Willow to Variegated w/Brocade Tail 1 4 4
3-60580 Shell 3"DOM/RES Crackling Willow w/Gold Strobe To Popcorn Crackle Pistil w/Brocade Tail1 4 4
3-60620 Shell 3"DOM/RES Crackling Willow w/Purple Dahlia Pistil w/Crackling Willow Tail 1 4 4
3-61570 Shell 3"DOM/RES Brocade to Red Strobe w/Blue Pistil & Red Wave Tail 1 4 4
3-61680 Shell 3"DOM/RES Green to Brocade w/Purple to Crackle Dahlia Pistil & Brocade Tail1 4 4
3-62290 Shell 3"DOM/RES Brocade Crown Kamuro w/Tail 1 4 4
3-62410 Shell 3"DOM/RES Gold Orido Nishiki w/Red Strobe Pistil w/Tail 1 4 4
3-62560 Shell 3"DOM/RES Brocade Crown Kamuro w/Brocade Tail 1 4 4
3C-71080 Chain 3"DOM/RES Super Crackle w/Silver Tail Chain of 6 6 6 36
3C-71150 Chain 3"DOM/RES Red, White & Blue w/Silver Tail Chain of 6 6 2 12
3C-71290 Chain 3"DOM/RES Variegated Peony Chain of 6 6 2 12
3C-71310 Shell 3"DOM/RES Orange & Lemon Peony w/Silver Tail Chain of 6 6 2 12
3C-71320 Chain 3"DOM/RES Purple Peony Chain of 6 6 2 12
3C-71330 Chain 3"DOM/RES Green Peony Chain of 6 6 2 12
3C-71440 Chain 3"DOM/RES New Color Crossette w/Silver Tail Chain of 6 6 2 12
3C-72150 Chain 3"DOM/RES Red White Blue w/Tails TIMER Chain of 6 6 2 12
3C-72260 Chain 3"DOM/RES Red Chrysanthemum TIMER Chain of 6 6 2 12
Proposal
Proposal Date:
7/21/2025
$12,000.00 Sept 5th, 2025
18-20 Minutes
$12,000.00
This quote is good for the entity listed as Sold To, and includes
all materials, equipment, certified operators, necessary
permits, and $5 million liability insurance.
1 of 2
3C-72290 Chain 3"DOM/RES Variegated Peonies TIMER Chain of 6 6 2 12
3C-72310 Chain 3"DOM/RES Orange & Lemon Peony TIMER Chain (6) 14 Sec 6 2 12
3C-72320 Chain 3"DOM/RES Purple Peony w/Tail TIMER Chain of 6 6 2 12
3C-72810 Chain 3"DOM/RES Crackling Spider TIMER Chain of 6 6 2 12
3C-72860 Chain 3"DOM/RES Gold Orido Nishiki Kamuro TIMER Chain of 6 6 2 12
Total 3" 308
Product ID Category Size Mfg Description Shots Quantity Shots Ext
A025-30G Cake 1"DOM/RES 25 Shot Green Peony Fan Cake 25 1 25
A025-30P Cake 1"DOM/RES 25 Shot Purple Peony Fan Cake 25 1 25
A025-30R Cake 1"DOM/RES 25 Shot Red Peony Fan Cake 25 1 25
A025-30Y Cake 1"DOM/RES 25 Shot Yellow Peony Fan Cake 25 1 25
A040-028 Cake 1"LID/RES 8X5 Fan Blue Peony & Brocade Crown Mines 40 1 40
A040-029 Cake 1"LID/RES 8X5 Fan Purple Peony & Silver Crossette 40 1 40
A049-150 Cake 1"DOM/RES 49 Shot Gold Strobe w/Purple Pistil Fan Cake 49 1 49
A080-604 Cake 1"LID/RES 10X8 Z Red & Green Falling Leaves w/Blue Pistil 80 1 80
A100-211 Cake 1"DOM/RES 100 Shot Silver Strobe Willow w/Blue Tail Cake 100 1 100
A100-600 Cake 1"DOM/RES 100 Shot Red, White & Blue Tails to Titanium Report Fan Cake 100 2 200
A100-762 Cake 1"DOM/RES 100 Shot Silver Crackling Stars w/Rainbow Colored Tails 100 1 100
A210-272 Cake 1"LID/RES 210 Shot X Purple & Orange Scenery 210 1 210
A210-706 Cake 1"LID/RES 210 Shot Blue Rhyme of Dancing 210 1 210
C025-119 Cake 1"LID/RES 25 Shot Blue Peony w/Purple Tail 25 2 50
C025-136 Cake 1"LID/RES 25 Shot Variety Crossette 25 2 50
C025-242 Cake 1"LID/RES 25 Shot Golden & Silver Flowers 25 2 50
C025-244 Cake 1"LID/RES 25 Shot Assorted Color Chrys w/Whistling Tail 25 2 50
C025-6850 Cake 1.2" ST FX 25 Shot Multicolor w/White Glitter Finale Cake 25 2 50
C025-801 Cake 1"LID/RES 25 Shot Red Time Rain w/Red Tail 25 2 50
C036-982 Cake 1.2"DOM/RES 36 Shot Salute Cake 36 2 72
C049-159 Cake 1"LID/RES 49 Shot Purple Chrys w/ Purple Tail 49 1 49
C049-208 Cake 1"LID/RES 49 Shot Green Peony w/Silver Tail 49 1 49
C049-271 Cake 1"LID/RES 49 Shot Blue Dahlia w/Blue Tail 49 1 49
C100-159 Cake 1"LID/RES 100 Shot Red/White/Blue Chrys 100 1 100
C100-220 Cake 1"DOM/RES 100 Shot Dahlia Peony & Crackle 100 1 100
C100-258 Cake 1"LID/RES 100 Shot Color Flower Tail to Gold & Blue Dahlia 100 1 100
C100-759 Cake 1"DOM/RES 100 Shot Happiness 100 2 200
C100-811 Cake 1"LID/RES 100 Shot Silver Crown to Red or Green Stars 100 2 200
C150-660 Cake 1"LID/RES 150 Shot Assorted Colors Chrys w/Coconut Pistil 150 1 150
Total Cakes 2498
2 of 2
Drone Show Experience Curated to
Lake Elmo, Minnesota
DRONE SHOW
PROPOSAL 2025
A t A e r i a l I l l u m i n a t i o n s , w e c o n v e r g e t e c h n o l o g y
a n d a r t i s t r y t o f o r m m e a n i n g f u l s t o r i e s a n d c r e a t e
u n f o r g e t t a b l e e x p e r i e n c e s . O u r c u t t i n g -e d g e f l e e t
o f d r o n e s w i l l l i g h t u p t h e s k y i n s y n c h r o n i z a t i o n ,
f o r m i n g s t u n n i n g a e r i a l d i s p l a y s t h a t w i l l c a p t i v a t e
y o u r a u d i e n c e , l e a v i n g l a s t i n g i m p r e s s i o n s .
W h e t h e r y o u 'r e p r o m o t i n g y o u r b r a n d o r c r e a t i n g
a m a g i c a l a t m o s p h e r e f o r a n e v e n t , o u r d r o n e
e x p e r i e n c e s o f f e r a i n n o v a t i v e , n e x t -g e n e r a t i o n a l
a p p r o a c h o f s t o r y t e l l i n g .
lightupthesky.com
You are the author,
we are the illustrator.lightupthesky.com
info@lightupthesky.com
888-444-0888
Website
Phone
E-mail
Aerial Illuminations
Company
lightupthesky.com
CORE TEAM
Niro Senanayake
President of Aerial Illuminations
Grant Reichardt
Director of Flight Operations
Norah Wiest
Director of Creative Design
FAA Certified Part 107 Pilot
FAA Certified Part 107 Pilot
FAA Certified Part 107 Pilot
Our crew members are assigned specific roles to monitor the safety protocols
throughout the event, including pre-flight checks, coordination with event
staff, and real-time monitoring of airspace conditions. Our team always
prioritizes both safety and efficiency to deliver a smooth experience for all
attendees.
On-Site Staffing Plan
Drone Show Crew Members
DRONE SHOW EXPERIENCE
lightupthesky.com
DESIGN CONCEPT
We are eager to propose design concepts for custom drone shows, each tailored to deliver a
visually captivating experience for your event. Every scene can be fully customized to your ideas
and narrative—bringing your vision to life in the sky. Our technology enables us to paint the sky
with over one million vibrant color variations. Each formation is meticulously choreographed,
featuring smooth transitions and dynamic animations. Additionally, we create a custom audio
track synchronized to the formations in the show. The audio track consists of songs and sound
effects that align with each scene, offering an enhanced drone light show experience.
Please note the storyboard below is an example. Our designs are fully customizable and will be
strategically designed to tell your story; a story that is completely customized to your brand, your
event, and your ideas. The possibilities are endless when it comes to design, especially when the
sky is your canvas.
12-14 Minute Drone Light Show
Choreographed Audio Synchronized to Show
3D Animation Approval Prior to Show
Site Survey, Safety Mitigation Meeting
Full Crew (Pilot, Operations, Crew Members) on Event Day
80-100 Hours of Custom Animation Design
INCLUDES:
DRONE COUNT COMPARISON
STORYBOARD
lightupthesky.com
Sample Storyboard - 200 Drones
Please note: A full storyboard contains 12-15 images.
Sample Storyboard - 150 Drones
Please note: A full storyboard contains 12-15 images.
Sample Storyboard - 300 Drones
Please note: A full storyboard contains 12-15 images.
1.Storyboarding (2 weeks) - All revisions can be made at this time at no additional
cost.
a.Collaborative communication with the client about event, theme, their story,
ideas, etc. - Initial survey is filled out, in addition to an in-person or Zoom
meeting with Director of Creative Design.
b.Design team creates storyboard.
c.Storyboard is sent over for approval to client. Client and Director of Design will
continue communication regarding changes or approval of the storyboard.
2. 2D Mock Ups (2 weeks) - Revisions can be made during the first week with 2D
mockups. Revisions include drone positioning, drone color, light effect, etc.
a.Design team begins programming and designing the storyboard within design
software.
b.Once design is complete, the design is sent over in a PDF document 2D
mockups for approval.
3. 3D Rendering (3 weeks) - There is an additional cost to make revisions at this time.
a. 3D Rendering of the show will be sent over for approval to ensure all motion and
movements within the scenes are correct.
4. Full Show Design Files Created (1 Week)
DESIGN TIMELINE
lightupthesky.com
SAFETY STANDARDS
We require that show dance space (where our drones will fly during the show
performance) must be separated from the audience by a distance equal to the
maximum height reached by drone show, which is expected to be 150 feet. This
space of separation from the audience is titled as the Restricted Zone. All non
crew members are excluded from entering the Restricted Zone. This Restricted
Zone allows us to best ensure that we are going above and beyond to keep our
guests safe and enjoying an incredible show.
Restricted Zones
Area surrounding launch grid must operate as a Pre-Flight Restricted Area- where
non crew members are barred from entering. This allows for our team and Pilots to
focus on show operations without distraction. If possible, we request that the
client assist in providing physical barricades to keep the public from entering the
Pre-Flight Restricted Area.
We aim to launch test shows the day before the initial show to confirm show
operation and to diagnose and solve any potential issues that may arise prior to
show. We conduct test launches as an added layer of safety, making certain that
we exhaust all options to confirm our show is safe.
lightupthesky.com
Test Simulations and Launches
All shows are ran through our virtual simulations to confirm show design is
optimally safe and allowing our operators to virtually prepare for launch day.
Visual Observers will man outer restriction area - monitoring airways and restricting on
foot access to area.
Our dedicated crew committed to providing a spectacular and safe show will consist
of the following:
1 Director of Operations
1 Pilot in Command
1 Co-Pilot
Visual Observers
Flight Crew
SAFETY STANDARDS
Drone System Safety & Mechanics
Geo Fences operate as a contingency to automatically manage drones in the
event of abnormal drone behavior to protect the public.
Soft Geo Fence
Upon breaching Soft Geo Fence, drone will commence Return to Home
action, returning safely to launch grid without interfering with show
choreography.
Hard Geo Fence
Upon breaching the Hard Geo Fence, drone will commence a Shutdown
Switch - immediately landing.
Return-to-Home
Remote Pilot in Command can commence RTH or Shutdown Switch at any point
of the show. Likewise, Remote Pilot can Hold show in place at any point in show.
Our drones are made by the leading manufacturer specializing in drone
shows, and they are the same drones utilized in world records. They have
safely conducted over 1 million flights worldwide in the past year.
Drones utilize redundant communication system allowing for safe and stable
operations with centimeter level accuracy.
lightupthesky.com
Ensuring Safe Design
All drones operate on pre-made path files that have been meticulously tested for
optimal safety standards by our designers. We ensure further assurance of safety
by submitting these path files to our manufacturer for rigorous reveiw and
confirmation.
FAA COMPLIANCE
FAA Permitting
Aerial Illuminations is fully authorized by the FAA to conduct drone light shows,
and will handle any additional permits from the FAA and/or local governing
bodies to successfully perform safe drone operations.
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SAFETY STANDARDS
Drone System Software
Aerial Illuminations utilizes the industry leading proprietary drone software
utilized in world records and shows worldwide. This software allows for
precise tracking, communication, and control of our entire drone fleet.
SOUND REQUIREMENTS
Aerial Illuminations strivers to provide an incredible drone show that operates as
an audio-visual experience. Due to this, we kindly request to utilize the onsite
stage sound systems in order to thrill the audience with an incredible audio
synchronized drone experience.
Weather Restrictions and Contingency
In the event that weather is an obstacle in completing a safe show, Aerial
Illuminations will reschedule the drone show at no additional cost on a
mutually agreed date within a year of the originally planned show.
In the event of rain and/or wind gust speeds exceeding 25 miles per hour,
Aerial Illuminations may decide to delay or postpone the show for safety
reasons.
TIMELINE
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Submit and receive any necessary city permits
Ensure full compliance with FAA
Conduct on-site testing prior to launch
Finalize contract and initial planning process
Complete in-person site survey (includes launch location, viewing area and discussion of
safety parameters)
Begin storyboard design of the drone show (includes close communication between clients
and designers)
Conduct 3D rendering of drone formations, address any creative changes at this time
(includes programming of show design animations, including visual and motion effects)
Finalize drone show programming (ensures each drone animation will be executed within safe
parameters)
Pre-Event Preparation (July - August 2025)
Final-Event Preparation (August-September 2025)
Set Up
Crew members and other personnel will arrive at the event a minimum of 6 hours before
show time
Set up launch site and all supporting equipment at the designated location
Ensure operational guidelines are followed
Ensure safety protocols have been put in place; restrict public access near launch site
an adequate distance away from show space.
Testing
Check UAS hardware
Check UAS software
Hover Test
Launch Show!
Clean Up
Our crew conducts full breakdown and cleanup of the launch site
Event Day Of (September 5, 2025)
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150 Drone Show Experience
QUOTE PACKAGES FOR
LAKE ELMO, MN 2025
Aerial Illuminations offers an all-inclusive pricing plan for 2025 drone shows. The
provided quotes below will highlight the pricing of 150-300 drone packages. The
provided quote will also include an on-site, in person visit during the preparation
process. Please note, the prices listed below account for all costs that are incurred for
the drone show experience.
Average of 12-14 Minute Drone Light Show
80-100 Hours of Custom Animation Design
Choreographed Audio Synchronized to Show
3D Animation Approval Prior to Show
Site Survey, Safety Mitigation Meeting
Full Crew (Pilot, Operations, Crew Members) on Event Day
$15,000
All drone packages include
200 Drone Show Experience
$17,500
250 Drone Show Experience
$20,000
300 Drone Show Experience
$25,000
400 Drone Show Experience
$30,000
Please inquire for drone show counts above 400, and we will be happy to
provide more information.
REFERENCES
Fun Spot America Theme Parks
Director of Marketing: John Chidester
Email: JChidester@Fun-Spot.com
Fun Spot America Storyboard - 300 Drones
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxfdkFDNtD0
Watch show here:
Strawberry Fest
President: Lori Olsen
Email: loriolsen5@msn.com
Strawberry Fest Storyboard - 200 Drones
lightupthesky.com
230 First Ave E, Shakopee, MN 55379
info@lightupthesky.com888-444-0888
THANK YOU!
Website
Location
Phone E-mail
@AerialIlluminations
Social Media
Creating Connections Beyond the Stars
Thank you for considering our proposal. We are truly excited about the opportunity to bring your vision
to life through our innovative drone show experience. Everyone has a story to be told, and we are here
to help share yours in the most spectacular way possible—by illuminating the sky with breathtaking
displays that captivate and inspire. We hope to move forward together and create a memorable
experience that resonates with your audience.
@lightuptheskydrones
@lightuptheskydrones