Did you know?
China produces roughly 90% of the fireworks we’ll set off for the Fourth of July. Which is fitting, since fireworks originated in China roughly 2,000 years ago. In 200 B.C., it was thought that roasting bamboo sticks until they exploded helped ward off evil spirits and large mountain men – which is quite the opposite today. Every year, Fourth of July fireworks send roughly 9,000 people to the emergency room, the majority of them men. It’s understandable considering that just three sparklers burning together are on par with a blowtorch.
For safe (and spectacular) fireworks celebrations, check out our guide here. The Chattanooga area is home to dozens of the estimated 14,000 public fireworks shows held around the country in honor of the Fourth of July.