Prices for fireworks are up 60% in Sultan and 30% nationwide as Trump’s tariffs on China squeeze Fourth of July budgets ahead of the nation’s 250th birthday.
SULTAN, Wash. — Fireworks prices are soaring across the country, and in the small Snohomish County community of Sultan, a decades-old tradition is at risk.
The annual Sultan Shindig draws 10,000 people each July to celebrate summer and the nation’s birthday. But President Donald Trump’s tariffs on China — the world’s largest fireworks manufacturer — have driven up costs 60% for organizers this year, forcing them to ask the public for help funding the display for the first time in the event’s 42-year history.
“If people don’t start stepping up, whether it’s a small donation or volunteering, before you know it our kids won’t get to experience what we all experienced growing up,” said Garrett Olsen, a lifelong Sultan resident and fireworks organizer.
Debbie Copple, who runs the Sky Valley Chamber of Commerce, said last year’s 11-minute fireworks show cost $5,000. This year, the same show will cost $8,000 — and she said a $5,000 show isn’t worth putting on.
“We want people to come and be part of it. We want it to be a quality show. In order for it to be a quality show, we need money,” Copple said.
Sultan isn’t alone. Costs are up 30% nationwide, forcing cities and towns to either shorten their fireworks displays or cancel them altogether.
Despite the financial pressure, organizers say they are determined to keep the tradition alive as the nation prepares to mark its 250th birthday.
“We’ll find a way. We’re going to find a way,” Copple said.
Donation jars have been set up to help fund this year’s display.
Donations are also being accepted electronically.
“If just 500 people here donated $20, we’d be more than set,” Olsen said.
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