Fireworks shows will illuminate the skies of Colorado Springs this Independence Day, continuing a cherished tradition despite recent concerns over tariffs potentially disrupting the supply chain. The American Pyrotechnics Association had previously warned that tariffs on Chinese goods could affect the availability of fireworks. However, local organizers have confirmed that festivities will proceed as planned.
According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, a staggering 95% of fireworks sold in the United States are imported from China. This year, these imports are subject to a 30% U.S. tariff, a significant reduction from the initial 145% proposed earlier. This tariff adjustment was part of a trade truce reached in May between the U.S. and China. Despite these economic pressures, the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation, in collaboration with the Colorado Springs Philharmonic, assured that the Star Spangled Symphony & Fourth of July Fireworks will go off without a hitch.
Local Resilience Amid Global Trade Challenges
“While it’s true that prices have generally gone up, as with many industries, we have not encountered any issues related to product availability, delays, or shipping obstacles,” said Lauren De Marco, spokeswoman for the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation. “We’re incredibly fortunate to be moving forward as planned, and we’re especially excited to once again provide fireworks shows across Colorado Springs for the community to enjoy.”
The announcement comes as a relief to many, as the city gears up for a series of events, including the Star-Spangled Symphony and Fourth of July Fireworks at the Ford Amphitheater. Performances by the Colorado Springs Philharmonic and School of Rock will accompany the fireworks display. Additional events include fireworks after soccer and baseball games played by the Colorado Springs Switchbacks and Rocky Mountain Vibes.
Community Events and Public Participation
In addition to ticketed events, a Fourth of July concert and fireworks at Banning Lewis Ranch will be free and open to the public. Fireworks at the Flying Horse Resort & Club will be accessible to guests and club members, while residents can enjoy displays from the comfort of their homes, courtesy of the Country Club of Colorado at Cheyenne Mountain Resort, Garden of the Gods Resort and Club, and Patty Jewett Golf Course.
Jody Ilett, owner of Affordable Flags & Fireworks, Inc., echoed the sentiment of business as usual. Her store, which stocks fireworks year-round along with patriotic decor and sports team accessories, has not faced any supply chain issues. “We have a full stock and we aren’t expecting a shortage of fireworks products,” Ilett stated, noting that she ordered her supply wholesale back in March.
Economic Implications and Future Outlook
Despite the current stability, Ilett acknowledged the potential for future impacts. “It’s business as usual for us, though I think some of this stuff will trickle down. It will probably affect us more next year,” she remarked. While prices have increased due to market fluctuations, she has not raised prices specifically due to tariffs.
“We have a full stock and we aren’t expecting a shortage of fireworks products,” Ilett said. “It’s business as usual for us, though I think some of this stuff will trickle down.”
Meanwhile, it is important to note that within Colorado Springs’ city limits, it is unlawful to light fireworks that require a flame to ignite. Only novelty items such as snappers and poppers are permitted. For those interested in the full schedule and locations of fireworks displays, more information is available at coloradospringssports.org/events/4th-of-july.
As the nation looks forward to its 250th birthday in 2026, the continued availability and affordability of fireworks remain a topic of concern. The current situation in Colorado Springs offers a glimpse of resilience and adaptation in the face of global trade challenges, setting a hopeful precedent for future celebrations.
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