About 9,000 people packed the area around the Rend Lake Visitors Center Saturday evening for the annual fireworks display sponsored by the Benton/West City Chamber of Commerce.
"We couldn't have asked for a nicer day for families to come out and enjoy the festival and fireworks," chamber executive director Karen Mullins said. "The crowds were amazing."
The event got its start for America's bicentennial in 1976.
This year's events featured a variety of vendors and activities including a petting zoo, disc golf, laser tag, inflatables and more.
"Our volunteers and community partners worked hard to make it the best event yet," Mullins said.