Carla Johnson is a familiar figure to locals every spring, as she persistently mails out letters seeking donations for the annual Independence Day fireworks display. This much-loved event attracts a large crowd to Elephant Butte Lake State Park, the largest lake in New Mexico. This tradition relies heavily on the donations amassed by ‘Friends of Elephant Butte Lake State Park,’ and Johnson isn’t the type to shy away from a fundraising opportunity when she encounters potential patrons. However, the ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China may pose a challenge that could derail her efforts in the coming year.
The Chinese manufacturers produce most of the star bursts, rockets, and radiant fountains that dazzle American crowds on the Fourth of July. Therefore, non-profits like Johnson’s and municipalities of various sizes find themselves closely monitoring the ongoing trade discussions. Temporary relief came in the form of a 90-day halt on escalating tariffs. However, this geopolitical disagreement has sparked an air of unpredictability that may raise the upcoming cost of firework displays unless a permanent solution is hammered out.
In 2019, the lengthy trade dialogues between the U.S. and China incited the same apprehension. The escalating tariffs threatened this industry, leading several groups to plead with officials to consider an exemption for fireworks. The issue has resurfaced this spring. The American Pyrotechnics Association and the National Fireworks Association have once again taken up the cause, emphasizing the cultural importance of fireworks in American celebrations, through letters to governing bodies.
These representative organizations highlight that the majority of businesses in this industry are family-operated and often committed to long-spanning contracts. The inflexible nature of these contracts makes it difficult for them to increase prices to counterbalance rising costs due to steep tariffs. Furthermore, sourcing over 136 million kilograms (300 million pounds) of fireworks to meet the demand proves challenging with limited alternatives, considering that China manufactures 99% of consumer fireworks and 90% of professional display fireworks consumed in the U.S.
Industry experts have expressed their concern over the lingering uncertainty caused by this tariff dispute. They acknowledge the temporary relief, but the question remains whether the negotiations with China will bring about a favorable outcome or if skyrocketing rates will return. This uncertainty presents significant challenges for small businesses in the fireworks industry which demand reliable budgeting and planning.
The inception of fireworks traces back to China where bamboo stalks were tossed into flames to ward off evil spirits with their popping sounds. This practice gradually evolved into a more refined art form after gunpowder was invented in the 9th century. Centuries later, by the 15th century, fireworks made their way to Europe, becoming a central part of religious celebrations and public entertainment.
The inaugural Independence Day celebrations in Philadelphia and Boston in 1777 marked the beginning of a long-lasting American tradition – the usage of fireworks. These mesmerizing displays of light and sound have since become ingrained as an integral part of the summer holiday and also to welcome the New Year. Firework shows today often incorporate elements of choreographed sequences that are in rhythm with live music for added spectacle.
Cities across the U.S. celebrate Independence Day with their unique brand of fireworks displays. Nashville, home to the award-winning symphony orchestra, puts a musical twist on the festivities. The Macy’s show in New York City launches an impressive 80,000 shells, some climbing as high as 304 meters (1,000 feet). Washington, D.C., on the National Mall, also promises an awe-inspiring spectacle courtesy of the National Park Service.
The occupants of southern New Mexico’s Elephant Butte stick to the traditional way of lighting fireworks manually. The dual spectacle of colors reflecting off the lake below and the thunderous echoes bouncing off the waters offers spectators a unique experience. The sentiment elicited by the display is aptly summed up by Johnson herself as she confesses to belting out the Star-Spangled Banner with unrestrained enthusiasm, highlighting the strong sense of pride and freedom that the spectacle stirs within her.
When planning for major fireworks shows like those in Nashville, organizers often place orders for fireworks over a year in advance; this foresight allowed them to circumvent the effect of the tariffs in the current year. Similarly, one of the largest cities in New Mexico was able to plan for an even more spectacular show this year, despite a slight increment in expenses, having planned far ahead.
In Oklahoma, a firework supply company works with non-profit organizations, enabling them to raise funds by setting up firework stands. The company succeeded in receiving its first shipment from China before the tariffs came into effect in January. Although the subsequent shipment in February was subject to a 10% tariff, the company decided to place a hold on the third shipment to avoid higher tariffs. This decision could lead to a scanty inventory later this year if the situation doesn’t change.
Should the trade dispute prolong, event organizers may have to adapt their plans whilst striving to keep any changes unnoticeable to spectators. Possibly, events might be shortened by a minute or two, or there might be the substitution of certain types of fireworks with more cost-effective alternatives. However, these changes are expected to have minimal impact on the audience’s overall experience.
Despite the potential challenges, for organizers like Carla Johnson, the main goal remains to deliver a spectacular show that will leave spectators with an unforgettable memory. They eagerly look forward to seeing spectators lining the Elephant Butte shoreline and the surrounding hillocks, with boats gently rocking on the lake, all captivated by the mesmerizing light show.
Each year, their mission is succinct yet profound – to flawlessly conduct the cherished tradition that has brought joy to and united countless individuals through a shared, awe-inspiring experience. And this year, amid the backdrop of political and economic uncertainties, their resolve to deliver on this objective remains undeterred.
The hope is that even as trade tensions persist between the U.S. and China affecting the economic dynamics of the pyrotechnics industry, the spirit of celebration, unity, and national pride carried by these fireworks will continue to soar high in the American skies.
For a beloved community tradition like the Elephant Butte fireworks display, the goal is clear: to continue illuminating the night skies every Independence Day, bringing together spectators in a shared moment of celebrations and commemorations – regardless of the challenges that lay ahead.