The tradition of a fireworks show in Fowlerville dates back many years. Originally, a fireworks show was part of the annual Fowlerville Fair. On July 4, 1976, as part of a community wide Bicentennial celebration, the Fowlerville Fire Department held a fireworks show, and a tradition began. It grew into an annual 4th of July event with many activities, a parade, and the fireworks show being the finale of the 4th of July celebration. Activities were held and sponsored by local business owners, organizations and volunteers.

In 2011 the committee lost Allen Hale, aka “Smokey the Clown”, a Fowlerville Firefighter, and one of the original people involved in starting this wonderful tradition. Allen was much loved by all who knew him and is greatly missed. In 2021, the committee created The Community Patriot of the Year award, also known as The “Smokey” Hale Award, which is given out at the beginning of the 4th of July Parade. The first was awarded to Butch Ogden (2021) for his years of service to our community.