The town of Stratford saw thousands of people gather Friday night for its Fourth of July fireworks show at Short Beach Park.

Officials say about 1,000 firework shells were used, making the show about 20 minutes long.

"Residents always look forward to Stratford's fireworks. We do a good job and put on a good show," says Fire Marshal Brian Lampart, of the Stratford Fire Department. "We'll have a little band playing on the beach tonight before the show. It's a good family night."

Resident Joe Gill says he prepares for a crowd every year because his house sits at the end of Airway Drive, which makes for the perfect view of the show. He says he loves the finale. 

"You think the show's over and everybody's cleaning up all their stuff and they just light up whatever they have left," he says. "It catches everyone by surprise."

Police say bike riders were not allowed at the beach this year.