Thousands of Americans celebrate July 4th by setting off fireworks. And, while they are pretty affordable individually, you can quickly spend a lot to have a spectacular show. We asked a fireworks stand owner her tips for saving money on fireworks, which she shares below.
I love fireworks. Each July our family stops by our local fireworks stand and picks up several that we can use to light the night sky!
There’s just something magical about watching your money blow up in the sky for seven seconds. I do love them, but isn’t that what it feels like sometimes? You buy this huge, $75.00 finale firework, and it lasts maybe ten seconds, and you’re left wondering, “That was it? That was worth $75?!”
We interviewed a firework stand owner who has been selling them for more than thirteen years. She shared with us some secret tips with you to help you save money and get the biggest show this year!
FINDING THE BEST DEALS ON FIREWORKS
Price Match
Did you know that if you find your favorite firework cheaper somewhere else, most places will price match! I’m not saying, ask for money back after you’ve purchased, and then found cheaper fireworks elsewhere. That is not going to happen.
Visit several stands and take photos of the products you want (so you can compare prices). When shopping at another stand, let them know where you can get a better deal and they will often price match in order to get your business.
Use Coupons
Lots of stands will either have coupons available or will put coupons in your local paper as an incentive to get you in the door. These often are great deals!
Multiple places I have worked with have also price matched another store’s coupon if you have it with you. It never hurts to ask!
Shop local – not large chains
Do a quick search for “fireworks stands near me” to find a locally owned stand, rather than a big box store. Of course, some smaller stands can be a rip off too, so make sure you check around before just shopping at the first stand you see.
The bonus of the smaller stand is they are often run by non-profit groups who get a share of the proceeds. It is a simple way to support both these groups and a local stand owner simultaneously.
Skip the big firework finale
I’m letting you in on something crucial here, so pay attention.
“Finale” fireworks, or 500 grams as we in the industry know them, are mostly a waste of money. 500 grams is the legal limit of fire powder you can have in one residential firework.
ALL the big fireworks that cost $40 or more are 500 grams. Even the ones that say they have more than other fireworks that size still have only 500 grams.
Rather than spend $40, pick up a 200-gram firework instead, which runs between $8 – $25. Sure, those fireworks are small but will feel heavier when you pick them up. But, the best fireworks to buy for the money will be these smaller ones.
The tighter the firework is packed, the bigger the boom and higher the burst. So those big tubes on the 500 grams? To be truthful, that actually makes them less impressive.
When you’re buying reloadable, or artillery shells, also pick up the box and go with the ones that feel heavier as well. The same rule applies to them too! If this is all overwhelming, ask questions, and the stand attendants should be able to help you!
Military Discount
If you’re in the military, or were in the military, first off, thank you. You are the reason we can keep celebrating this holiday year after year!
Ask for a discount when you shop. Most stands will offer at least 10% off your purchase, even if they do not advertise. Of course, not everyone participates, but it never hurts to ask.
Bundle
Buying package deals, or going in with friends to save some money is a great idea. Please understand as well, that most firework stands get every other person asking for a discount or a deal if they, “buy a lot.” Your definition of, “a lot” and the stand owner’s definition of the same, are often two different things.
If you’re only planning on spending just a $100 – $200 on your fireworks, you often will not receive a discount. Make sure you offer reasonable amounts and understand what it is to be a “big buyer” in this business when you aim to barter.
Stand owners love to negotiate, but only when you plan on buying $300 and more worth of fireworks.
Jacob says
Do you know of any good firework stands or stores near Illinois? I’ve looked online, but I would have to drive at least an hour to get to any stands.