The History of Fireworks on Independence Day and the 2021 Fireworks Shortage

Last year, consumer fireworks sales exploded because people stayed home and bought their own rather than attending public events or group gatherings to view firework displays. This year, a shortage of shipping containers in China is slowing down fireworks deliveries. About 90% of all U.S. fireworks are imported, nearly all of them from China. Americans can expect higher priced fireworks or potentially empty shelves.

Igniting fireworks on July 4th goes back almost as far as American independence itself. The first organized celebration of Independence Day, including a “grand exhibition of fireworks,” took place one year after the signing of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia on July 4th, 1777.