A 45-year tradition at Weber State, Lindquist Pops brings community together
OGDEN, Utah — The annual Lindquist Family Symphony Pops Concert and Fireworks will light up the skies above Weber State University on July 14 from 9–11 p.m.
Now in its 45th year, this free community celebration is open to all.
The New American Philharmonic will provide a 60-minute concert beginning at 9 p.m. at the Ada Lindquist Plaza at the heart of campus. The performance will include Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” with a battery of 16 cannons provided by the Cannoneers of the Wasatch.
Around 10 p.m., thousands will enjoy one of the largest fireworks displays in Utah, set to the music of the live symphony.
Continuing the tradition
Charles Freshman, president of the Cannoneers of the Wasatch, has been part of Lindquist Pops for more than 20 years, helping with the live cannon fire that has become a hallmark of this event.
“Listening to the crowd react after the last shot is cool for us to hear,” Freshman said. “It’s about getting together with people we like who have common interests. Kind of the same reason people are on that lawn at Weber and come year after year.”
Before Freshman was a cannoneer, he was a spectator. Years ago, he knew a few other cannoneers who were performing at Lindquist Pops, and he brought his family to watch.
When the “1812 Overture” began and the cannon fire rang out, he looked at his wife and youngest son’s expression: “They seemed delighted.”
At that point, Freshman said the door to a new passion was opened. Since then, he has collected seven cannons — some he built himself, others were gifted or bought.
The Cannoneers of the Wasatch have nine active members. About half are following in their fathers’ footsteps, inheriting a cannon and an interest in the activity. “The rest just got hooked on it, like I did,” Freshman said.
Attending the event
The Lindquist Family Symphony Pops Concert and Fireworks was first initiated by John A. and Telitha E. Lindquist in 1978 and is now proudly continued by John E. Lindquist, president of Lindquist Mortuaries and Cemeteries in Ogden.
On-campus parking and seating is available, but limited. Parking lots A1 and A10 will be closed beginning July 13 at 9 a.m., and the interior part of campus will be closed to vehicles all weekend.
The roundabouts off Harrison Boulevard and Dixon Drive will be closed to traffic, but vehicles can access campus from Skyline Drive and Taylor Avenue.
To minimize damage to campus grounds, attendees may not leave blankets, chairs or save spaces before 6 p.m. on July 13. Items placed on the lawn prior to that time will be removed.
Tarps, stakes and tent pegs are not allowed due to safety concerns and will be removed. No personal fireworks or pets are permitted, with the exception of service animals. Spectators are asked to clean up their area and drive with courtesy and caution following the event.
Several local food trucks will sell refreshments.
Rachel Badali, news coordinator
801-626-7362, rachelbadali@weber.edu- Contact:
Rachel Badali, news coordinator
801-626-7362, rachelbadali@weber.edu