Fireworks return to Niles this week with more to offer than ever before.

In addition to a fireworks display, which begins at dusk Thursday, the Four Flags Area Chamber of Commerce will hold an Open Stage Fun Fest beginning at 6 p.m. that includes live music, children’s activities, several food vendors, face painting and more.

“I found last year that people were just sitting in their cars or watching a cornfield, which I thought might not be very much fun,” said Tyanna Weller, chamber president. “We are trying to create something that will be interesting and that people will want to come to.”

Everything will take place at the Four Flags Area Apple Festival Fairgrounds, located at 1740 Lake St. near Ring Lardner Middle School.

While most of the activities are free, including the fireworks display and live music, people should expect to pay for food and entrance to the bounce houses. Colby Event Services is providing the bounce house at a rate of $6 for 30 minutes, $8 for an hour and $12 for unlimited access.

Representatives from the Miss Niles Scholarship Pageant will act as emcees for the live bands, which include Deep Fried Pickle Project, Jason Barr, 45 to Argos and The Monroe Brothers.

Volunteers will be taking free-will donations at entrance that will go toward funding future fireworks shows and other chamber events.

“With all the enhancements we have a lot more to pay for this year,” Weller said.

This year’s show is sponsored by Lake Michigan College, Southwestern Michigan College, Delta Industrial Valves, Greater Niles Community Federal Credit Union and Nancy Butler

“It is crucial to have their support and we greatly appreciate it,” Weller said. “They help us make the event better and offset some of the cost.”