LONE JACK, Mo. — Oak Grove Parks and Recreation announced this week that their fireworks display will proceed on July 4, with high aerial displays and no crowds, but not every community will have fireworks.
That includes Independence.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has hit everyone, public and private sector. Many of the people coming forward to be a sponsor just had to pull back because of their own financial uncertainty. That combined with restrictions on mass gatherings in totality made it seem like a wise time to take a year off," Independence City Manager Zach Walker said.
The cancellation of those fireworks displays due to the pandemic across the area isn’t affecting the bottom line at Pyro City in Lone Jack. They said their sales are up.
"I think it’s actually increased our business a little bit more because they’re canceling those shows and we really feel bad for our commercial partners putting on those displays, but it’s really bumping up our sales," Store Manager Donna Nuccio said."It’s just really sad for them that they’re not able to get out and do what they need to do."
Nuccio said they're selling to those who want to have their own celebrations on Independence Day.
"When you think about the grand scheme of things, with commercial shows being canceled, I’m not surprised, because people have been home, isolated, they want to get together with family and friends and celebrate, so it’s kind of expected," Nuccio said.
A few communities haven't canceled their shows yet, but with less than a month until the holiday, organizers are weighing celebration with safety.
