Ocean Park was filled with blankets and beach chairs early Friday afternoon, as people claimed prime spots in the lawn for that night’s fireworks display. At 9 p.m. the crowds filled the park and lined the streets, the beach and fishing piers, as the annual pyrotechnic display got underway.

The Oak Bluffs Fire Department hosts and sponsors the show, with help from sponsors like Summercamp hotel.

The festivities began with a concert at the band stand by the Vineyard Haven band, and the fire department was selling glow sticks, blankets and T-shirts to raise money for next year’s show.

Revelers of all ages marched around the band stand with glow sticks in hand while the band played When the Saints Go Marching In.

Meanwhile Oak Bluffs school was selling water, popcorn and other treats to raise money for a student trip to Philadelphia. “Hey! It’s good popcorn,” one student called out to passers-by.

On Sea View avenue extension police stood guard behind yellow police tape, blocking off the street where President and his family were enjoying their annual trip to advisor and family friend Valerie Jarrett’s home for the fireworks show.

When the show began the crowd was silent, save for a few cheers and claps for favorite fireworks. At the end of the show some said they thought it was the best ever.