I can’t even tell you the number of calls we have received the past few months with people trying to get fireworks shows scheduled for the 3rd and 6th of July. There have literally been 2 or 3 calls per day the last few weeks and it seems that many towns and organizations that have been having displays for years are in a world of hurt this year.
Over 1200 annual shows are not being fired in the US this 4th of July holiday week and that estimate may be low... Some are claiming 2500 shows in the US for independence day have been cancelled... Why? Read below!
Please consider booking your 2020 show for the holiday's now - Don't wait or you'll have the same problem next year.
The Problem - Less Certified Display Operators
Looking at historical numbers of display operators shows that many people are not renewing their license to shoot. This is a problem in that there are less and less qualified operators out there to accept shows. With less people available to put product in the air there will certainly be less shows.
Waiting until the last minute
If you read through this page you will see that I recommend booking your fireworks displays well in advance. Waiting until the last minute with such a shortage of shooters is making the problem worse. The coming tariffs will only make it even more of a problem next year with higher prices due to higher cost to get product into the US. It normally takes 60 days to get the permits in place and coordinate most shows. Sure some places are easier to deal with and can issue permits quicker, but don't count on it.
Pending Tariff's
The Trump administration is set to impose tariff's on China at 25%. It is highly likely that fireworks will cost more to import next year with these tariff's. Due to the risk it's best to lock in your company for next year or the next few years now.
Planning for Next Year!
I highly recommend hiring your pyrotechnics company at least a year in advance. Now that we know there are less people to shoot the products, issues jumping through hoops at the last minute and pending tariffs, it's time to consider booking next years shows now so that you can guarantee you will have a qualified company to handle your display.
While I don't like being the one to bring bad news I did want to let everyone know that now is the time to get your quotes and book for next years 4th of July displays. Booking now will save you a lot of frustration and time and ensure your quote is based on the cost of products before these tariff's hit again...
DON'T WAIT TILL THE LAST MINUTE - BOOK FOR 2020 NOW!
Call Wetzel Pyro today to schedule your 2020 shows to avoid these issues!