ALLENTON, Wis. — As summer approaches and the Fourth of July creeps closer, fireworks stands across Wisconsin are lighting up with eager customers and fully stocked shelves. At Uncle Sam’s Fireworks, one of the busiest outlets in the area, the message is simple: shop early, save money and stay safe.
We received a question from longtime firework enthusiast Bob Rockey, who emailed TMJ4 asking whether tariffs might impact firework prices this year. He met us at Uncle Sam’s Fireworks to get answers straight from the source.
“I’ve loved fireworks my whole life,” Rockey said. “But watching the news—tariffs, China, politics—it made me nervous. I wasn’t sure if prices were going to triple.”
Fortunately, Rockey and other shoppers can breathe a sigh of relief. Store manager David Reilly says their prices are staying steady thanks to early buying and smart planning.
“My boss’s motto is ‘stack it deep and sell it cheap,’” Reilly said. “That’s what we do here.”
According to Reilly, the average family spends around $300 on fireworks, though some spend far more with one customer even dropping $16,000 on a single visit. Still, he emphasized that the store tries to cater to all budgets.
“It’s a small ‘r’ relief,” Rockey joked. “I have to have a budget, and I need it to last.”
From sparklers and smoke bombs to elaborate aerial displays, demand is strong across the board. But whether you're spending big or shopping smart, one thing remains critical—safety.
Watch: Fireworks prices holding steady at Wisconsin shops, easing customers' fears
The store is decked out with signage reminding buyers to follow state and local laws when using fireworks. While many consumer-grade fireworks are legal in Wisconsin, some are not—unless you have a permit. According to the Wisconsin Department of Justice, illegal fireworks without a permit include:
- Firecrackers
- Roman candles
- Bottle rockets
- Mortars and aerial shells
You can read more about what’s legal and what’s not here.
To help customers prepare, Uncle Sam’s Fireworks is hosting a Demo Night on June 6, where the hottest summer items will be on full display. It’s a great chance to see what you’re buying before the big day.
With stable prices, plenty of inventory, and clear safety guidance, Uncle Sam’s Fireworks is helping Washington County light up the sky, safely and affordably.
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