Fireworks shortages dampen some holidays

by Greta Cunningham, Minnesota Public Radio

St. Paul, Minn. — It's July 4th, Independence Day, and many people are planning to gather at dusk to watch their local fireworks display or lighting a fuse of their own at home.

But some of those displays, both professional and personal, may be a bit smaller this year.

The American Pyrotechnics Association says there's a shortage of fireworks this year because of supply problems in China. The U.S. relies on China for about 98 percent of our consumer-grade fireworks and about 80 percent of the nation's professional displays.

To talk about the fireworks supply here in Minnesota, Mark Lazarchic, owner of Renaissance Fireworks, Minnesota's largest fireworks retailer, joined Greta Cunningham to talk about the shortage.

Broadcast Dates

• All Things Considered, 07/04/2008, 4:44 p.m.
• All Things Considered, 07/04/2008, 4:44 p.m.