Fireworks Sales a big part of Butte’s 4th of July celebrations
While a good portion of local governments in Montana have put serious restrictions or outright bans on personal fireworks this summer, that is not the case in Butte where we have just entered that time of the summer where the fireworks stands are open and abundant.
Billie Jo with Gonzo's Fireworks on Longfellow just west of Harrison says that in addition to being extremely well-stocked and competitively priced, Gonzo's is locally owned, and they pride themselves on giving back to the community in a variety of ways. "The biggest thing is we give back to Butte," she told us. "We support a lot of local medical benefits, we support the St. James Foundation, we support the Butte Wrestling Club," she said. "We donate a lot of packages," she added with a smile. She also told us she believes Gonzo's has the best selection in town and has some of the biggest artillery shells allowed.
Jerry's Fireworks on South Montana Street is another locally owned stand that has been around for three generations. Shelly Quinn told us that Jerry's has been a Mining City staple every summer since 1947 and it is the Butte Community that gets credit for their longevity. "I think that Butte is very loyal. People come back with their kids saying 'this is where I bought fireworks when I was a kid' and they love that it's always been here," she told us adding that family is a huge part of their success pointing to her kids, Jerry's grandchildren, who were taking care customers.
On South Harrison you'll find Big Sky Fireworks who are known for putting on some of the biggest shows in the state according to Rene who was manning the booth. Big Sky Fireworks is also proud to offer 15% off to police officers, firefighters, active military and veterans.