RUMFORD — More than 6,000 River Valley residents gathered in and around Hosmer Field on Monday evening to watch an impressive pyrotechnical display.

Many came early to claim a viewing spot and enjoy refreshments, Mike Wells, Rumford Parks and Recreation director, said.

“Fireworks have been absent from Rumford for the past several years. The last time a fireworks display was in Rumford it was up by the reflective pool below the falls,” he said.

A group of River Valley volunteers this past year organized a committee and spearheaded a drive to bring fireworks back to the area and specifically to Hosmer Field.

“Our priority was bringing back the fireworks,” Town Manager Carlo Puiia said, “then we worked back from the fireworks for what we should have to keep people entertained.”

Pre-fireworks entertainment included two musical acts, Scot Grassette’s Walk of Danger, children’s activities, and a 50-50 raffle.

“The winner of the 50-50 Raffle won $403,” Puiia said. “Without hesitation he counted half of the amount off and gave it back to pay for next year’s fireworks at Hosmer Field.”

Puiia said, “I was so pleased to see how happy, relaxed and comfortable everyone was with hundreds stretched out on the blankets.”

“There was a real feeling of community and connectedness among the crowd here at Hosmer,” Mills said. “I think there was more of a sense of community here than when the fireworks were up at the pool. My guess was there were around 4,000 people just in Hosmer.”

There were 2,200-plus shells exploded for the show.

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