Firework sales expected to increase for America 250 celebrations

FULTON, Mo. (KMIZ)

With the Fourth of July approaching in under two weeks, fireworks shops and tents are gearing up for more shoppers.

"We're really excited this year to celebrate the 250th birthday of America," Shawn Pettigrew, the owner of Freedom Fireworks in Fulton, said. "We're hoping to have a great turnout. I've stocked up my tent with extra product and brought on some good sales."

Pettigrew has two tents, one off of I-70 at the Kingdom City exit, and another located on Bluff Street. The Bluff Street location is decked out in America 250 banners and lots of America-themed fireworks. He said he bought 30% more fireworks this year than last.

The state fire marshal is also expecting an uptick in sales because of America 250 and FIFA World Cup.

“Because July 4th – the largest fireworks event each year – is also the 250th anniversary of American independence this year, we expect to see more gatherings and an uptick in the use of fireworks,” State Fire Marshal Tim Bean said in a press release. Bean resigned from his position Wednesday.

Legal, seasonal fireworks sales began Saturday and will run through July 10, according to the release.

Bob Peneston, the manager of Screamin' Freedom Fireworks also in Fulton, said he expects most of his customers to start ringing up product soon at the tent on Bluff Street.

"I've got folks already coming in, budgeting themselves early, telling me they're going to be here next Friday because it's payday, and they're going to be ready to buy a lot of stuff," Peneston said.

He said he expects his tent to bring in about $20,000 to $30,000 more this year.