*Editor’s Note: This article was updated on 08/29/2023 to reflect pricing tier variations for suppliers and to include other options for cheaper fireworks. Additional context was also added to pricing comparisons.
Fireworks are expensive. The first time I decided to purchase a LOT of fireworks was just a few years ago. I went to a local fireworks store with the plan of creating a pyromusical. I had already picked out a few songs, purchased a cheap Chinese manual firing system off eBay, and was ready to get the fireworks for my 15 minute show.
Then it hit me right in the face. I was going to need about $1,000 to get about 10 or so cakes and some canister shells. I was already mentally committed, so I decided to make the purchase; becoming an “MVP customer” at that location – by the way!
If you’ve experienced the same thing, I’m here to tell you, like myself, you are doing it all wrong! I’m going to take you on my journey of getting cheaper fireworks. Read on!
How Much Are Fireworks?
If you’re not already aware of the price of fireworks and supplies at the average brick-and-mortar shop, here are the average cost ranges for fireworks in my area (Michigan).
| Type | Cost Range |
| 1.75” Canister Shells (24 Pack) | $50-200 |
| 200 Gram Cake | $10-40 |
| 500 Gram Cake | $30-100 |
| Finale Cake/Set | $50-200 |
| Fountains | $10-30 |
| *24 Shot Mortar Rack (with tubes) | $150-250 |
* We will get into mortar racks another time, but this was worth noting.
Get to the point, Mike! How do I get fireworks cheaper?
Buy Wholesale Fireworks Online
Yes, you can purchase fireworks online and even have them shipped to your door! This means that your local fireworks store or tent doesn’t have the monopoly you may have thought they did. There are options! Maybe you already knew this? I definitely did not.
The key is finding the right place (and time) to buy. Read on to reap the rewards of my research.
*Note: I am not affiliated with and have not received compensation from any company mentioned for this article.
American Wholesale Fireworks
American Wholesale Fireworks (AWF) was the first company I found during my research that sells and ships fireworks online. They have a huge assortment from about 15 different brands and the process is just as simple as buying from Amazon. Add to your cart, checkout, and done.
Fireworks Forever
Fireworks Forever (FF) is the second company I researched. As with AWF, FF also has a huge assortment of fireworks among about 12 different brands. You can purchase fireworks at wholesale prices, either by the case or some individually.
Spirit of ‘76
Spirit of ‘76 (76) is the third company I researched. Again, a huge assortment of fireworks with more focus on their own brands – rightfully so. 76 does stock some well known brands other than their own.
What About Shipping?
Yes, shipping fireworks is not cheap. Depending on the size of your order, you will pay anywhere from $160 to $300 on average. This MAY offset some of the advantages of ordering online depending on the products purchased, the amount of products, and your location. Every situation is unique, but overall, I’ve found it’s still cheaper in the end.
AWF’s shipping is calculated at checkout. You can pick up your order at their warehouse, at your closest distribution center for the chosen carrier, or have it shipped to your house or business. They require that a semi truck is able to navigate to your location. If not you will have to choose the distribution center pick up option.
FF’s shipping is not calculated for you at checkout. You will have to place your order and they will call you to handle logistics. It’s generally the same as the others so there shouldn’t be any surprises for most.
76 shipping is calculated at checkout. As they use similar carriers, their pricing is also similar to the others. They do charge extra for residential delivery so you can save by picking up at the carrier terminal near you.
In all cases, be sure to call and ensure you understand the delivery process and your options that can save you money! Ask to request their carrier terminal locations and that your order is sent to the one nearest you if you’re picking up there.
AWF, FF, and 76 Comparison
Because there are variations in brands carried across companies and there isn’t one brand consistent among all of them, it’s difficult to nail down a perfect comparison, which is why I found that having all three in your toolbox is a good idea. AWF and FF have some overlap on products we can compare. 76 does not share any products that I could find with the other two.
Before we compare, note that each company has their own unique pricing structures and your pricing level will vary depending on the volume of products you purchase. For example, both AWF and 76 have multiple pricing tiers which allows customers to drastically reduce prices with higher volume. FF has a one-price-for-all model.
Cases Vs. Individual Units
AWF allows you to purchase individual units on everything!
FF requires case purchases for consumer cakes which can increase your overall cost a little, but dramatically reduces the unit price. FF allows individual unit purchasing of all 1.4 pro line products.
76 is only by the case and does not sell individual units online.
A Simple Comparison
The prices compared here are only a snapshot of what was available to me at the time of this article. Also keep in mind, the base price isn’t the only thing to consider as shipping can be much cheaper for one than the other depending on your location and volume.
Comparison #1: The 500 gram “Breaking News” cake at AWF is $60.25/unit ($54.13/unit for a case of 2), FF is $29.38/unit but you must purchase a case of 2.
Comparison #2: The 500 gram “Living Dead 8 Shot” cake. AWF is $39.25/unit ($35.13/unit for a case of 6), FF is $19.61/unit but you must purchase a case of 6.
Comparison #3: The 500 gram “Rip The Sky” cake. AWF is $58.50/unit ($52.56/unit for a case of 4), FF is $30.30/unit but you must purchase a case of 4.
Comparison #4: The “Kingslayer 12 Pack” canister shells. AWF is $48.50/unit ($43.54 for a case of 6). FF is $21.67/unit but you must purchase a case of 6.
Other Options For Cheaper Fireworks
Club and Group Discounts
As Jim points out in the comments, there are other ways to get fireworks cheaper that deserves a mention. He recommends joining a local or regional fireworks club to take advantage of group purchasing power. This is an excellent, additional option to consider. If you have a larger group, you can get into better pricing tiers immediately, or much quicker that way. You will also save a LOT on shipping. In addition, joining a local pyro club is also your best way to learn the craft faster and safer, so this is great feedback.
Fireworks Specials, Deals, and Coupons!
Off-season Deals
All fireworks suppliers have specials depending on time of year. Just after the 4th of July is a great example. When stock is depleted from the busy season, what remains usually gets heavily discounted to make room for new stock.
Please comment if you know of any other great sales we can add to the list!
Related Sales and Discount Links
- American Wholesale Labor Day Sale
- Fireworks Forever Specials
- Fireworks Forever 10% Veteran Discount
- 76 Fireworks Discounts
The Bottom Line
These examples illustrate how purchasing wholesale by the case online can be a LOT cheaper. There are also MANY other companies out there, so be sure to check around and let us know here if you find any gems I missed. All three of these companies are a compliment to your toolbox.
In conclusion, it can be tricky to nail down the best bang for your buck but at the least, you now have a great foundation to work from. Be sure to consider the pricing structures available to you based on your volume, then look at costs of shipping, and finally, don’t forget discounts and coupons!
Keep learning!
– The Novice Pyro
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