Whether you take part in community firework shows, or put on your own pyrotechnic display, fireworks are a patriotic symbol that many people look forward to on the 4th of July.
"We're going to buy a combination pack with small fireworks," said Eric Amador.
Due to the sour economy and the costly expenses of putting together a firework show, some cities like Selma came close to celebrating Independence Day without a bang.
"If it wasn't for the community support we would not be able to do this," said Cindy Powell of Selma Chamber of Commerce.
The city of Clovis was feeling the same pinch as well.
"That's always the case, firework shows are not money makers but without sponsors it wouldn't happen," said Bruce Wilson, Clovis Freedom Fest.
These spectacular explosions don't come cheap.
The average cost is about $1,000 per minute to fill the sky with colors.
It costs about $40,000 for Clovis to put on a decent show, and about $20,000 for Selma, and that's money both cities say they don't have in their budget.
Thanks to their sponsors and generous donations from the public the sky rockets are ready to light up the sky.
"We're not cutting back on anything. We're making this bigger and better as we can make," said Wilson.
It's an indication the show must go on.
"It's worth it to see the smile on kids faces," said Powell.
