Area fireworks shows set

The red, white and blue tradition of fireworks high above the Illinois prairie continues Friday in Matherville and Saturday in Aledo.

The Aledo show is set for dusk Saturday at the Mercer County Fair Grounds. It is sponsored by the Aledo Fire Department and the City of Aledo. Fire Chief Dennis Litwiler said $8,000 is budgeted for the event.

"We think we've got a really good show for the money we spend," Litwiler said.

The 48th annual fireworks display in Matherville takes place at dusk Friday on the shores of Lake Matherville. The rain date is Saturday.

The Matherville celebration is sponsored by the Matherville Firework Association. No pets are allowed at the event.