In celebration of July 4^th, Intel is collaborating with the Travis Air Force Base to bring a drone-powered light show to honor active military and veterans with this entertainment experience on Independence Day.

The origins of Independence Day fireworks dates back to 1777, and for the first time, an Intel Shooting Star drone light show will have the honor of celebrating July 4^th with an elaborate ceremony as an alternative to a traditional firework display.

What’s New: Travis AFB in Fairfield, California, will collaborate with Intel to replace a traditional Independence Day fireworks display with an Intel Shooting Star drone light show. In celebration of July Fourth and Travis Air Force Base’s 75^th anniversary, 500 Intel Shooting Star drones will dance across the nighttime sky in a choreographed aerial routine that honors active military and veterans.

“We are excited to collaborate with the Travis Air Force Base to celebrate the July Fourth holiday by bringing a new form of nighttime entertainment to honor the military and their families. I am looking forward to seeing the joy and excitement that our drone light show brings to the spectators,” Anil Nanduri, vice president and general manager, Intel drone team, said in a press release.

Why It Matters: The origins of fireworks on July Fourth dates to 1777.Travis AFB is collaborating with Intel to recognize active military, veterans and participants of the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP). Travis AFB has one of the largest Air Force EFMP populations. The program’s mission is to identify medical and educational service requirements of family members in support of active-duty sponsor reassignment and civilian employment overseas.

This drone light show will be a more inclusive July Fourth celebration that can be enjoyed by all families, especially those with sensitives to the sounds of firework explosions.

“The story of the Air Force is a story of innovation. With Travis in close proximity to Silicon Valley, the base strives to develop relationships and to play an active role in Northern California’s innovation ecosystem,” said Col. John Klein, Travis Air Force Base installation commander. “For our 75^th anniversary and as a way of saying thank you for the unprecedented community support, we wanted to treat our friends and family to a special Independence Day celebration – Intel’s vision to reimagine fireworks with cutting-edge drone technology was a natural fit for our airmen and audience.”

In Our Words: “While fireworks amaze audiences of all ages, there are pollution and safety concerns and the loud sound effects are sometimes unsettling to humans and animals alike,” Nanduri said. “This partnership showcases how Intel’s advanced drone technologies are making strides to positively impact the world and create new entertainment experiences for all audiences.”

As always, the July 4 performance is weather permitting. To watch a preview video, click here.