How Much Is Spent on Fireworks for the 4th of July?

Since 1777, “illuminations,” which is how display fireworks were called back then, have been an integral part of the Fourth of July celebration. This is one of the reasons why summer is considered a fireworks season. According to American Pyrotechnics Association (APA), consumer fireworks sales for the 4th of July jumped to over $2,3 billion in 2022. And this number includes only personal-use pyrotechnics. Let’s talk about how much is spent on fireworks for the 4th of July each year and what states usually spend more than others.

Table of Content

• How Much Money Is Spent on Fireworks Each Year?
• How Much Do Fireworks Cost in 2024?
• How Much Do Fireworks Shows Cost?
• What States Spend The Most on Fireworks Shows?
• How to Protect Yourself During the Fireworks Season
• Are Fireworks Legal?

How Much Money Is Spent on Fireworks Each Year?

Americans love fireworks and can always find a reason to light up the night sky. As a result, the fireworks industry prospers. In the 21st century, we observe a gradual and steady growth of consumer fireworks revenue. While the amount was nearly $407 million in 2000, it increased significantly up to $695 million in 2014.

Additionally, the amount spent on a fireworks display in 2014 was about $332 million, giving us a total of nearly $1,1 billion. Two years later, the amount spent by consumers on fireworks was over $800 million. And the number reached $945 million in 2018.

According to the American Pyrotechnics Association, after the COVID-19 pandemic, personal-use fireworks revenue continued to rise. Compared to 2019, the value in 2020 almost doubled and amounted to $1.9 billion. In 2021 and 2022, Americans spent nearly $2,2 and $2,3 billion, accordingly.

The annual amount that Americans spent on fireworks per person in 2021-2021 ranges between $0 and $13.36. The exact cost depends on location, show length, size of event, and type of fireworks you use. But one thing is for sure: fireworks prices have been rising in recent years. The price increases due to many factors, including the growth of shipping costs, shipping delays and shortages, and inflation.

How Much Do Fireworks Cost in 2024?

In 2022, retail fireworks cost increased by more than 25% nationwide. However, in 2024, many fireworks companies advertise a price drop. For example, Superior Fireworks, which is an online leader in consumer fireworks, promises its new lower wholesale prices will help you save up to 15% on the Fourth of July celebration compared to 2022.

If you’re planning a small firework show, it can cost you between $80 and $200. A larger event with professional fireworks can cost between $800 and $2,000. If you’re planning an event with a full display of fireworks, you’d better consult with a professional. This will help you understand how to use pyrotechnics safely and avoid accidents.

How Much Do Fireworks Shows Cost?

According to the data of Premier Pyrotechnics, a small-town or community Fourth of July fireworks show typically costs from $2,000 to $7,000. The show duration is usually 10 to 20 minutes. However, if you want a music-synchronized fireworks show, the sum can be up to $2,000 per minute. This way, a 10-minute-long event can cost you up to $20,000.

What States Spend The Most on Fireworks Shows?

Statistics say that states with the lowest population density tend to spend more on the Fourth of July celebrations and fireworks. This way, Missouri, Nebraska, Kansas, North and South Dakota, Montana, and Wyoming are among the states that are the most lavish in terms of fireworks spending.

Missouri shows the highest expense range, with the amount reaching $13.36 per person in 2020. South Dakota has faced the biggest increase of Independence Day fireworks displays costs. In 2020, the amount was $2.67 per person, but it jumped up to $10.87 per person in 2021.

How to Protect Yourself During the Fireworks Season

Almost 80% of Americans state that they are going to celebrate Independence Day and attend a firework display. However, many people arrange their own small events. Despite all the fun and joy, you should also keep in mind that consumer fireworks and sparklers can cause fires, injury, or even death. In 2021, 9 people died, and 11,500 were injured in incidents involving fireworks.

Therefore, we recommend all American consumers pay attention to safety prescriptions and rules to avoid accidents. Here are some common recommendations to stick to:

1. Don’t let kids play near fireworks or sparklers. Keep them at least 35 feet away from ground-based fireworks and at least 150 feet away from aerial fireworks.
2. Drugs and alcohol are incompatible with fireworks. Remember that hand sanitizer also contains alcohol, so keep it away from fireworks.
3. Use fireworks at least 25 feet away from houses or flammable materials.
4. Avoid holding lighted fireworks in your hands, and never point or throw one at another person.
5. Always keep water nearby.
6. Don’t use illegal fireworks.

Are Fireworks Legal?

Each state may have its additional restrictions and set a curfew time when all fireworks shows must end. While most states allow most consumer fireworks, including explosive ones, there are some exceptions. For example, Massachusetts is the only state that has banned all consumer fireworks. Additionally, some states allow residents to use only non-aerial and non-explosive fireworks. Here’s the list:

• Arizona;
• California;
• Colorado;
• Connecticut;
• Delaware;
• Idaho;
• Maryland;
• Minnesota;
• New Jersey;
• New York;
• North Carolina;
• Oregon;
• Rhode Island;
• Virginia;
• Washington, D.C.;
• Wisconsin.

Additionally, Hawaii, Nevada, and Wyoming are states with independent fireworks regulations for each county.