Firework shortage is making it harder for people to host their own celebrations

MADISON, Wis. — Fireworks are in high demand as the 4th of July rolls around, but people are finding it’s much harder to get their hands on them.

Last year, COVID slowed down firework production and shipment into the United States from China.

Firework shop owner Andrew Obricht says China has had to produce more fireworks than ever before.

“This year there’s a substantial fireworks crisis or shortage of fireworks. The reason for that is last year we had a really good year in the firework business and the pressure was on China to make more fireworks than they’ve ever had to produce in the history of China,” said Obricht.

The pandemic cancelled many firework shows and events in 2020, which meant many people had to host their own celebrations.

“The demand for fireworks was way up, it was the best and busiest year in the history of the fireworks industry, not only for me but for other fireworks providers,” said Obricht. 

Now, shows are lighting up and welcoming people back to celebrate in larger spaces.

Shows like the one held at Blackhawk Country Club didn’t have a celebration last year. Head Pyrotechnician Gary Johnson says it was the first time in 50 years they didn’t have a show.

“Were shooting all stuff thats 200 feet or more in the air which should be visible from most of the golf course,” said Johnson.

For a list of places you can watch this years fire works, visit here. 

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