America's 250th birthday is creating a disparity in fireworks displays, with larger cities able to afford lavish celebrations while smaller towns struggle. The increased demand and competition for aerial displays have driven up costs significantly. Some municipalities are finding themselves priced out of even modest fireworks shows. Many smaller communities are resorting to alternative dates for their celebrations or relying on public donations to fund their events. Unfortunately, some towns have had to cancel their fireworks altogether due to prohibitive costs. Fireworks display companies are prioritizing larger budget clients, leading to a shortage of availability for smaller towns. This surge in demand extends the busy season for pyrotechnicians, exacerbating staffing shortages and equipment limitations. Drone shows have emerged as an alternative, but they often prove to be equally or more expensive than fireworks. Despite these challenges, many communities still desire the traditional fireworks experience for their celebrations. The core issue remains that while the desire for spectacular celebrations persists, many smaller towns cannot afford the associated expenses.