The July 4 holiday is here and for many Independence Day revelers that means one thing – fireworks.

Certain types of fireworks are legal to purchase and use in Arizona during times surrounding the Independence Day holiday, Christmas and New Year’s.

Unfortunately, all of these types of fireworks are designed to create a shower of sparks on or near the ground.  With most of the state under drought conditions, that shower of sparks could easily ignite any dry grass or brush in the area.

On June 25, the Forest Service imposed Phase II fire restrictions in Arizona which effectively ban the use of legal, ground-based fireworks anywhere but on privately-owned property.

Any type of fireworks that launch into the air and explode are expressly prohibited unless specifically permitted by fire officials.  Firecrackers, although technically ground-based are actually illegal for all the reasons your mother warned you about.

That being said — there are a number of publicly sanctioned displays of the type of fireworks that launch into the air and explode on Sunday

Last summer, many communities cancelled their traditional fireworks displays because of concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic.

Christopher Boan reported for Patch that Phoenix has decided to cancel their display and events over the same concerns, but compiled a listing of a number of communities that have decided to move ahead with their Independence Day festivities.

SCOTTSDALE

The largest fireworks display in city history will reportedly take place at WestWorld (16601 N. Pima Rd.) on July 4.  Expect to pay $26-$41 to join in the fun.

CHANDLER

The city of Chandler is hosting a July 4^th Fireworks Spectacular at Tumbleweed Park (2250 S. McQueen Rd.).  It is a drive-in style event with a $5 parking fee.

MESA

Another drive-in style event is scheduled in Mesa, at the Fiesta Mall (1425 W. Southern Ave.).  This is a free event with patriotic music through 94.5 KOOL-FM.

GOODYEAR

There will be fireworks, live music and a zipline at the Goodyear Ballpark (1933 S. Ballpark Way).  This is also being touted as the largest display in town history.

PEORIA

The city of Peoria is planning their festival at The Peoria Sports Complex (16101 N. 83^rd Ave).  In addition to fireworks, there is scheduled to be live music, a cornhole tournament and concessions.

Check with the city’s website to make sure the event you are planning to attend hasn’t been cancelled or postponed.