Fireworks buyers flock to neighboring states

By Jim Talamonti | The Center Square
The Center Square

(The Center Square) – Illinois consumers are flocking to neighboring states to buy fireworks as the United States celebrates 250 years of independence.

Illinois, Vermont and Massachusetts are the only U.S. states that ban most fireworks.

Deanna Delimat, co-owner of Black Bull Fireworks in Salem, Wisconsin, said she sees a lot of customers from the Land of Lincoln.

“I’m going to estimate around 85% of them come from Illinois, since we’re so close to Illinois. We’re right on the border there,” Delimat told The Center Square.

On June 19, Black Bull opened three temporary locations near the Illinois border.

“We do that every year along with our super store on Highway 50 in Salem,” Delimat said.

James Meyers, owner of Captain Jim’s Fireworks in West Alton, Missouri, said about half his customers come from Illinois.

“Most people talk about filling up with gas before they go back, because gas and diesel are both pretty significantly less expensive in Missouri. They come over here, get their fireworks. If they do smoke, they’ll stop by the cigarette store and buy them there because they’re cheaper and then get gas and head home,” Meyers told The Center Square.

Brandon Walters, security manager at Uncle Sam’s Fireworks in Hammond, Indiana said buyers come from all over.

“I would say at least a good 40%, 50%, if not 60% from Chicago,” Walters told The Center Square.

Illinois State Fire Marshal Michele Pankow said people far too often underestimate the dangers associated with fireworks.

“We encourage everyone to leave fireworks to the professionals and make safety a priority this Independence Day,” Pankow said in a statement.

Health care facilities in Illinois reported 101 people injured by fireworks during the 2025 seasonal reporting period.

At 35%, mortars were listed as the most frequent type of fireworks or pyrotechnic effect involved in injury, followed by Roman candles at 14%, sparklers at 10% and bottle rockets at 7%.

Still, Walters said business is great for the USA’s semiquincentennial.

“We’re doing unbelievable numbers compared to previous years. Our prices are down compared to most stores. Sales are though the roof,” Walters said.

Delimat and Meyers also said sales are up and they expect to be busy over the next few days.

“We have a bunch of items specifically for the 250th,” Meyers said.

Illinois Pyrotechnic Use Act violations can be punished with fines up to $2,500.

Glenn Minnis contributed to this story

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