The demand for fireworks is exploding. The US fireworks industry has more than doubled its annual revenue in the past 13 years. family 4thAccording to the American Pyrotechnics Association, fireworks revenue hit $425 million in 1998 and in 2010 it skyrocketed to $952 million. See some of those patriotic pyrotechnics at one of the biggest 4th of July fireworks shows in the country.

Macy's 4th of July Fireworks: New York City, New York

The Macy's 4th of July Fireworks show bills itself as the biggest fireworks show in the US. Forty-thousand explosives set off from six barges are used for this patriotic pyrotechnic show on the Hudson River. And if you come to this event expect to see some real stars-- including Beyoncé, Brad Paisley, and Nick Lachey.

KaBoom Fest: Red Bank, New Jersey

People travel for miles to see the annual fireworks show in Red Bank, New Jersey. Fireworks for KaBoom Fest are launched off a barge on the river accompanied by popular and patriotic music, which is choreographed to the pyrotechnics and simulcast on New York's classic rock station Q104.3 FM.  The actual fireworks cost about

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$85,000 according to PR Coordinator Judy Musa. "We are fortunate to have partnerships with local businesses, non-profits like The Community YMCA and hundreds of volunteers including first responders in Red Bank and the surrounding towns who give their time during to ensure a safe, festive weekend," she says. Last year 150,000 spectators turned out to the event and Musa is hoping for even more this year.

Family Fourth at Lake Union: Seattle, Washington

After some struggles with fundraising, organizers of the Family Fourth at Lake Union in Seattle were able to raise enough money to keep the show going this year. According to the Seattle Times about 350 companies and private donors contributed a total of $500,000 to fund the fireworks and festivities.

Red, White and BOOM: Columbus, Ohio

The annual Red, White and BOOM event in Columbus, Ohio includes a parade, a food festival and a talent competition. The show even has its own iPhone app! But of course the fireworks are a major part of the summer tradition. According to the show's executive director Mike Collins, organizers spend more than $100,000 on the 26-minute long fireworks show. "It's the most recognized show in the US because of attendance," says Collins. "Four-hundred-fifty thousand people come out to see the show and when you factor in the live television and radio broadcast the scope gets much bigger." This is Red, White and BOOM's 31st presentation and Collins says it's the highest rated television show and radio broadcast for Central Ohio during the entire summer.

Go 4th On the River: New Orleans, Louisianago 4th display

This year marks the 21st anniversary of the Go 4th On the River celebration in New Orleans. This show features not one, but two fireworks displays from dueling barges on the Mississippi River. Tens of thousands of people flock to town to be a part of this award-winning event.

 

Where will you be celebrating this 4th of July? Wherever you may be, remember to be safe, and as always, don't drink and drive.

 

Can't make it to one of these? Check out this fireworks show from the comfort of your home:

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