This Independence Day, the pyrotechnic torch is being passed. Sovereign Estate Winery is stepping up to take charge of one of Waconia’s favorite summer traditions: the 4th of July fireworks.
“The Fourth of July is personally my favorite holiday,” says Isaac Savaryn, owner and VP of Vineyard Operations at Sovereign Estate Winery. “I have so many memories as a kid going out on the boat to watch the fireworks with my family after a long day filled with time on the lake, grilling by the pool, or just running around the yard. The Fireworks were always the perfect way to cap off the day. I know there are so many other people who have those same memories, and when I heard the Waconia Chamber was looking for someone new to take on the show, I figured it was almost my civic duty to continue it.”
And this 4th of July is a special one. It’s America’s 250th anniversary. For Isaac, helping the next generation and young kids create those same core memories he had growing up is so special. And the fireworks are everything. “Over 10,000 people watch the fireworks every year here,” explains Isaac. “Whether it’s at Sovereign Estate, the beach, or from a boat. Keeping this tradition alive is so important because it brings the community together. We’re hoping families and friends experience a truly memorable start to their Fourth of July weekend!"
The community did indeed come together when they heard Isaac and the Sovereign team were taking on the fireworks this year. “The local community has been very supportive. I’m so thankful they were able to see the importance of keeping this tradition alive. Financially, it was a bit intimidating, but fortunately, I have had incredible support from the Waconia Lions, the Waconia Chamber, the Hoffmans, Sovereign Estate Winery, and Greg James from Iron Tap,” says Isaac. “I am always open to more funding, as that would make for a bigger show!”
This year, the fireworks will take place on Friday, July 3, kicking off the long holiday weekend, and the show will now be on the north shore of Lake Waconia, creating even more viewing opportunities. “Watching from the beach or by boat will both be fantastic options,” says Isaac. “We’re anticipating a phenomenal turnout. I’ve hired a great pyrotechnic company to design and organize the show, so it’ll sure to be a fun, community-centered celebration where people can relax, enjoy great entertainment, and take in one of the best fireworks shows in the area.”
The 4th of July festivities at Sovereign will start well before sundown, however. Isaac says, “We’ll be hosting an all-day celebration with live music, food, wine, and an Elvis Tribute Concert leading up to the fireworks show. A portion of ticket sales from the event will be donated back to the Waconia Fireworks Festival to help support next year’s celebration.”
The Fireworks Festival is just the start at Sovereign. “We have so much going on this summer,” says Isaac. “From concerts, to festivals, to wine tastings, and cabana rentals where you and your party can enjoy a more intimate dining experience, there’s something happening almost every weekend that guests won’t want to miss.”
Live music plays every Friday and Sunday, along with their Vintage Concert series on select Saturdays, where you can catch your favorite tribute bands at Sovereign’s Marquette Pavilion. Coming up on July 11 is a Johnny Cash Tribute Concert, followed by the ABBA & Elton Tribute Concert, which, personally, we’re very excited for.
“We’ve also introduced a great new menu that pairs phenomenally with our wines,” Isaac says, “creating an experience that goes far beyond just wine tasting."
But their delicious food isn’t the only new item on the menu for Sovereign. “We've got plans for a new and exciting building that will expand our offerings as a tasting room, restaurant, and private event space that we can utilize all year,” shares Isaac. “We’re looking at breaking ground in the fall of 2026 and will have more information to come, so we’re excited for the community to follow along on our journey!”
This summer, Sovereign Estate Winery is truly the place to be.
To get tickets for the 4th of July Elvis Tribute Concert, learn more about the fireworks, and summer events at Sovereign, head to sovereignestatewine.com.
When I heard the Waconia Chamber was looking for someone new to take on the show, I figured it was almost my civic duty to continue it.