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<\/p>\nEpic Pyrotechnics store manager Seth Covert stocks a box of 1,500 Gram Finale, a top seller, at the store at 1211 Blair St. in Hollidaysburg. Mirror photo by Patrick Waksmunski <\/p>\n
Revenues for both consumer and display fireworks hit record highs in 2025 and another record-setting year is likely this year as America celebrates its 250th anniversary on July 4.<\/p>\n
According to the American Pyrotechnics Association, the fireworks industry saw revenues of $2.3 billion for consumer fireworks and $650 million for display fireworks in 2025.<\/p>\n
The holiday falling on a Saturday is good news for fireworks distributors.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe anticipate a surge in personal backyard fireworks usage and bigger professional fireworks displays for communities nationwide. \u2026 We anticipate a surge in first-time users of fireworks to mark this once-in-a-generation monumental anniversary in America\u2019s history,\u201d said APA Executive Director Julie Heckman. \u201cJuly 4 falling on a Saturday always drives industry sales upward. Couple that with Americans preparing to commemorate America\u2019s 250th birthday, and it should be a blockbuster year for the fireworks industry.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe expect this historic milestone to boost sales, and though we cannot predict the future, it is highly unlikely that Americans will skip out on the opportunity to celebrate our nation\u2019s founding day. Early sales are already trending upward, and discounts on more than 25 best-selling items are making it easier and more affordable for customers to choose their favorites,\u201d said Clare Holt, spokesperson for Youngstown, Ohio-based Phantom Fireworks.<\/p>\n
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A variety of fireworks line the shelves at Epic Pyrotechnics at the 1211 Blair St. location in Hollidaysburg.
\n Mirror photo by Patrick Waksmunski\n<\/p>\n
Kevin Shaub, owner of Lancaster-based Keystone Fireworks, said there is a high level of excitement about America\u2019s 250th birthday.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe expect to see Americans celebrate accordingly. Everyone should want to put some fireworks in the sky and celebrate this special July 4,\u201d Shaub said. \u201cWeekend holidays make it easier for people to have parties, and the 250th falling on a Saturday is great for the fireworks industry.\u201d<\/p>\n
The tariff situation \u2014 China produces 99% of consumer fireworks and 90% of professional display fireworks \u2014 which has impacted the fireworks industry, has been resolved for the most part, Heckman said.<\/p>\n
Heckman said that when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in early March that the reciprocal tariffs were unconstitutional, it was a welcome relief for the fireworks industry. <\/p>\n
\u201cCompanies have filed for tariff refunds, and some have begun to receive refunds through the U.S. Treasury. The fireworks industry worked very hard last year, and for this Fourth of July season, to keep pricing as reasonable as possible so families and communities can celebrate America\u2019s 250th anniversary without unnecessary cost increases,\u201d Heckman said.<\/p>\n
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<\/p>\n
A variety of fireworks are available at Epic Pyrotechnics at the 1211 Blair St. location in Hollidaysburg.
\n Mirror photo by Patrick Waksmunski <\/p>\n
\u201cPhantom Fireworks worked hard to keep prices as stable as possible throughout the changes. We are pleased to report that tariffs are no longer affecting our business heading into this fireworks season. With nearly 50 years in business, we have successfully navigated economic ups and downs before and this time was no different,\u201d Holt said.<\/p>\n
Despite the economic turbulence, fireworks prices are similar to last year.<\/p>\n
\u201cGiven the economy, and increased cost of other consumer goods including groceries (and) gasoline, pricing for consumer fireworks should remain close to the pricing consumers experienced last year,\u201d Heckman said. \u201cWhile some items may be slightly higher, other items may have reduced prices.\u201d<\/p>\n
Advancements in safety<\/p>\n
Fireworks can be dangerous \u2014 last year the APA reported four injuries per 100,000 pounds of fireworks \u2014 but today they are safer than ever.<\/p>\n
\u201cToday\u2019s consumer fireworks are the safest fireworks ever made. There have been advances in product design, quality control, safety standards, labeling, and consumer education \u2014 all of which have transformed the industry,\u201d Heckman said. \u201cThe most important statistic is not how much fireworks use has grown \u2014 it\u2019s how much safer the industry has become.\u201d<\/p>\n
Heckman said while consumption has increased tenfold since the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission first promulgated consumer fireworks regulations in 1976, the injury rate per 100,000 pounds consumed has decreased by 90%. <\/p>\n
Holt said today\u2019s legal consumer fireworks are no more dangerous than they were 30 years ago, and fireworks-related injuries have actually declined by more than 62% during that time. \u201cIndustry-wide safety efforts, including education campaigns and partnerships with law enforcement and safety organizations, have helped improve safe selling and handling practices. Manufacturers and retailers also follow regulations that limit the size and capacity of consumer fireworks, helping balance safety with an enjoyable experience. Together, these measures have made fireworks celebrations safer than ever,\u201d Holt said.<\/p>\n
Quality control<\/p>\n
Jake Simonis and Todd Covert, owners of Epic Pyrotechnics, Hollidaysburg, said fireworks quality has come a long way over the last century and that quality control at manufacturing plants has increased dramatically which has improved the overall quality of the items sold today. <\/p>\n
Perhaps the best piece of advice for consumers is to buy from a reputable, licensed dealer.<\/p>\n
\u201cAlways read and follow the instructions on the label. Your fireworks should be used outdoors on a flat, fireproof surface away from buildings, with a bucket of water or garden hose nearby in case of emergencies,\u201d Holt said. \u201cPlease enjoy your fireworks safely by having a sober adult ignite fireworks, since children should not be handling them. Even sparklers burn at over 1000 degrees, and should be lit and handled by an adult at all times.\u201d <\/p>\n
\u201cTake the time to plan your fireworks activities, including selecting an appropriate area to discharge your fireworks. Thoroughly read and follow all instructions for use. Have a sober, responsible adult in charge of all fireworks activities. Always have a bucket of water or water source ready in case of emergencies. Keep spectators at a safe distance,\u201d Heckman said.<\/p>\n
Rose Knepp of Kneppy\u2019s Fireworks, Morrisdale, said her best advice is always \u201csafety first.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe at Kneppy\u2019s Fireworks educate our customers on fireworks safety to reduce the risk of accidents\/injury. I personally ask customers if they know how to safely set off the fireworks and educate when needed. Be knowledgeable of the state laws and local ordinances. Be considerate of your neighbors. A little consideration can go a long way to living in harmony. If you know they have animals or people who are sensitive to loud noises, at least give them a warning to prepare,\u201d Knepp said.<\/p>\n
Mirror Staff Writer Walt Frank is at 814-946-7467.<\/p>\n
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