THE SUMMER EXPLOSIVES FESTIVAL

[de_lux]

Warning: Too many explosive devices.
Locations: Various locations in Freesia, the Park.
Characters: Anyone and everyone.
When: The last Sunday in July.
Summary: The citizens of Freesia are celebrating THE SUMMER EXPLOSIVES FESTIVAL. Expect fireworks and barbecue.

With the chaos of last month's Nox Carnival and the ongoing fallout from that, most of Freesia's guests are probably finding the city a less than cheerful place to stay.

However, this past week they may have noticed a strangely festive air to the place. There's an excited buzz about the commercial district, and the city has been fancied up with fresh flowers wherever you go.

And then, come today, you'll finally learn what all the excitement's been building towards.
 

A: The first thing you're liable to notice is the box of fireworks that have been neatly placed by the entrance of wherever it is you live. Most of them aren't very big, consisting of things like firecrackers and sparklers, but you're free to play with them however you wish. Evidently, someone out there wanted to give you a present.

B: Head on over to the park, and you'll notice there's a large festival going on, and banners hung over the various park entrances proclaim it to be THE SUMMER EXPLOSIVES FESTIVAL. Oddly, no matter where you look, THE SUMMER EXPLOSIVES FESTIVAL always seems to be written in all-caps. The park grounds are mostly full of citizens gathered together, barbecuing food together and playing games. They're still not the friendliest, but they don't seem to outright mind the presence of the magic users at the moment. Various stalls have been set up, selling food, fireworks, souvenirs, t-shirts, and flowers. The stall owners are happy enough to sell their wares to anyone who doesn't mind the fact that they're overpriced.

C: If the merchandise doesn't interest you, there are also various competitions going on that are free for anyone to join. These range from three-legged races, to hot dog eating competitions, to karaoke contests, and similar activities. Prizes are mostly cheap flower crowns or flower chains, but do well enough in any of them and you might win something of actual value in the line of mundane material goods.

D: But it's after the sun sets that the real moment the citizens have been waiting for occurs. From over the farmlands, a plethora of fireworks are being launched off Bright, colorful, and loud, it makes quite a spectacle for anyone watching from the park. Or, if you don't mind the long climb, we recommend making your way to the top of the Lux Spire for the best view.

And the Nox, strangely, seem to be staying well away from THE SUMMER EXPLOSIVES FESTIVAL, even after the sun sets.