Rhythm and Booms
Rhythm and Booms is an annual summer fireworks show in Madison, Wisconsin on John Nolen Drive and Lake Monona at the center of the city. The show, which began in 1993 and held at Warner Park on the northeast side until 2013, is held on the last Saturday in June. Madison claims it is the largest fireworks presentation in the Midwest The event is owned and produced by Madison Festivals, Inc. Madison's radio station WOLX|94.9 WOLX broadcasts a 30 minute music show timed to the fireworks. The event draws an annual attendance of around 300,000 people.
The show is operated by a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Madison Festivals, Inc, that also produces the Taste of Madison and Madison Marathon Events. Proceeds from Rhythm & Booms go to local charities that provide the 2,500 volunteers and to the American Family Children's Hospital.
The fireworks are launched in choreographed fashion to music broadcast over the radio. The 30 minute show begins at 9:30 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own radios to listen.
During the day of the fireworks show, activities for families and adults are held along John Nolen Drive, Law Park and on Lake Monona. A stage will feature live musical acts.
Radios are necessary mostly because it is easier to synchronize the musical rhythm with the booms going on in the sky, since radio waves travel at the speed of light.
Booms
The fireworks last for around 30 minutes and feature over 2,500 fireworks shells.
The fireworks' mortars are fired by computer, ensuring synchronization of the fireworks and music.