PLAY Presents 2026 Thunder Over Patoka with Larger Displays in Celebration of America’s 250th

On Saturday, July 4, Patoka Lake Area Year-round (PLAY) presents the annual Thunder Over Patoka fireworks show at Patoka Lake, featuring larger displays this year to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. Thousands of people will head to Patoka Lake to watch the huge fire rockets shoot into the sky over the clear water. Whether near the Patoka Beach area, on a boat, or at one of the close-by ramps, the show will be a sight to see featuring premium, professional fireworks.

This year marks the 22nd year that Patoka Lake Area Year-round (PLAY) has put on this annual event. PLAY would like to encourage all area residents and visitors to make plans to attend this year’s Thunder Over Patoka. 

Fireworks will start at dark. Bring your family and friends, lawn chairs, blankets, refreshments, and bug spray. If already camping at Patoka this weekend, there is no need to drive down to the beach. Instead, go to section C of the Modern Campground for a viewing area of the fireworks display.

The entrance fee of $7 per vehicle for Indiana residents ($15 out of state) is required for the Newton Stewart State Recreation Area, Patoka Reservoir, located north of Wickliffe Indiana, Highway 164. 

For more information regarding this program or other interpretive events, call the Patoka Lake DNR at 812.338.5589. 

PLAY’s budget for America’s 250th Birthday increased by 50% on this nationally celebrated day. With this increase, donations are needed more than ever. Each of the three county’s tourism organization contributed with an Eagle Level (Above $1,000) Donation, including Timeless French Lick, Visit Dubois County, and Crawford County Recreation & Tourism. They were not alone with Gilmore Log Homes/ Patoka Lake Cabins, Springs Valley Bank & Trust Company, and Messmer for Congress soaring at the Eagle Level of Sponsorship as well.  

PLAY relies solely on these donations to present this annual show. Additional significant sponsors include the following breakdowns of donors: Blue Level ($500 to $999) – Discover Southern Indiana and Dubois County Tire & Supply; Red Level ($250 - $499) –Benny’s Off The Water, Blue River Carp Catfish Bait Company, Chickadee Café, Ewing Printing Co., Finn’s at Patoka Lake, French Lick Cabins, Jeff & Shellie Dukes & Family, Kelly Davenport Photography, and The Village at Patoka Lake; White Level ($100 - $249) – Celebration Ice, CHall Illustration / Design, Jessica Burton – Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance, Rhett Neukam, and Sander Catering. 

For additional information or to make a donation, go to https://www.patokalakeindiana.com/thunder-over-patoka.