IRONDALE, Ala. (WBMA) — Irondale is putting a high-tech twist on one of its biggest annual celebrations.
City officials announced this year’s I Love Irondale Day will carry the theme “AI Irondale,” combining traditional family activities with artificial intelligence, robotics and drone technology.
The centerpiece of the event will be a 300-drone aerial light show beginning at 8:45 p.m. on Saturday, July 18. According to the city, the synchronized drones will tell the story of Irondale’s past, present and future through animated images in the night sky.
The announcement comes after the Irondale City Council approved a $22,000 agreement with FlyLight Drones, LLC for the performance. According to the contract, the approximately 10-minute show will launch from Ruffner Baseball Park using a fleet of 300 drones.
In addition to the drone show, the city says this year’s festival will feature:
- Interactive artificial intelligence experiences.
- Robotics and drone technology exhibits.
- Hands-on STEM activities for all ages.
While introducing new technology, city leaders say longtime favorites will remain part of the celebration, including:
- Food trucks, with free meals for the first 500 guests.
- Heidi’s Kids Zone featuring bounce houses, a giant water slide, games and crafts.
- Train rides.
- A Young Entrepreneurs Market.
- Community resource booths.
The entertainment lineup includes country band Deputy 5, The Tony Tatum Experience, and DJ Maverick, along with line dancing led by D2 Line Dancing.
The celebration will also coincide with America’s 250 festivities.
The city announced The Freedom Truck, a traveling history museum created as part of a White House initiative commemorating America’s 250th birthday, will be in Irondale from July 18-20.
City officials are encouraging residents to stay through the evening, when the drone show is expected to serve as the event’s grand finale.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, July 18, with the drone show beginning at approximately 8:45 p.m.