Forget about those dazzling displays and safety concerns for a second. The real power of fireworks is burning holes in American wallets.
In 2015, Americans spent more than $1 billion on fireworks, according to the American Pyrotechnics Association, a 65 percent increase since the turn of the century. That counts both consumer fireworks, which dominate the market, and those used for professional shows.
“Business is booming, and as long as Mother Nature cooperates, we think we’re going to have another record year,” said Julie Heckman, executive director of the association. “Industry revenues continue to climb year after year. A lot of that is related to the relaxation of consumer firework laws (around the country).”
Per capita, every U.S. household spent $8 on fireworks last year. Heckman estimates that counting just those households that buy fireworks, the average spent per family is around $100.