RELEASE: Cancelling Fireworks on Independence Day in Philly - Where the Declaration of Independence Was Signed, Would Be Disappointing


WASHINGTON – National Fireworks Association (NFA) today expressed its concern after learning the City of Philadelphia cancelled the WaWa Welcome America festival without allowing for fireworks on Independence Day.

However, the NFA remains optimistic after hearing Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney tell local media that he had some ideas on how to include fireworks in this year’s celebration.

“Fireworks and Independence Day are synonymous, and it would be tragic to lose this great American tradition, on this great American holiday in the city where it all started,” said NFA President Steve Houser.

Fireworks cancellations are happening across the country at an alarming rate. The City of Boston recently cancelled its show. Columbus, Ohio which hosts one of the country’s biggest firework events, “Red, White and Boom,” cancelled a four-day show at an estimated economic revenue of $11 million to that city. The City of San Diego last month cancelled “Big Bay Boom” which generated $17.8 million in sales to the local economy 2018.

Fireworks shows around the country are put on by small family-run businesses. The Fourth of July holiday, in many cases, amounts to 80-90% of many fireworks companies’ annual revenue as Houser pointed out.

“For some of these small businesses, nearly their annual entire revenue is based upon being operational during these two weeks leading up to the Fourth of July. This is everything for them,” said Houser.

 To remain consistent with social distancing guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) the NFA is encouraging Philadelphia and other cities to consider the following while planning for the Fourth of July:

  • Allow drive-up firework shows where families can celebrate safely and see the illuminations from their vehicles. 
  • Event organizers can work with broadcast partners to air their fireworks show or set up a live stream. 
  • For consumer firework retailers, allow customers to phone ahead with orders and provide curbside pickup. 

Houser concluded: “Millions of Americans will watch fireworks on television from places like Washington, D.C., Mount Rushmore and New York. We recognize that this year we might celebrate Independence Day a bit differently, but it’s no reason to cancel our traditions – particularly in the city where Independence Day started.”

About NFA: The National Fireworks Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for the safety of consumer fireworks and professional display fireworks. Importers, distributors, manufacturers, and sellers of commercial fireworks make up the over 1200 small businesses member companies who operate in the United States.

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