American Pyrotechnics Association

10/14/2026

Congratulations to the newly elected APA and APSEF leadership!

Following an outstanding 2026 APA Annual Convention, we are thrilled to announce the results of this year's Board election and officer appointments.

APA Officers:
⭐ President: Brian Panther, Pyrotek
⭐ Vice President: Ken Sprague, Hamburg Fireworks Displays
⭐ Secretary: Jason Trout, TNT Fireworks
⭐ Treasurer: Steve Pelkey, Atlas Fireworks

APA Board of Directors Elected:
⭐ Michael Ingram, Fireworks Over America
⭐ Ken Sprague, Hamburg Fireworks Displays
⭐ Rocco Vitale, Pyrotecnico
⭐ Will Wallus, RES Pyro

APSEF Officers:
⭐ President: Brandon Corn, Fireworks Over America
⭐ Vice President: Jason Trout, TNT Fireworks
⭐ Secretary: Matt Rhinehart, Spirit of '76
⭐ Treasurer: AJ Burns, NCI

Congratulations to all and thank you to everyone who participated in this year's election! The future of this industry is in great hands.

10/12/2026

250 years. One night. One record. 🇺🇸

On July 4, 2026, Pyrotecnico partnered with Freedom 250 to produce the capstone event of America's Semiquincentennial, a world record attempt for the largest fireworks display ever, right on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

840,537 shells. 168,107 pounds of fireworks. 8 barges on the Potomac. A live military band. 40 minutes that the country will never forget.

Swipe to see how history was made 🎇

10/09/2026

What a way to close out the week! ✨

The Grand Finale Fireworks at Disney's Yacht Club Marina was the perfect send-off! An amazing fireworks display to end an unforgettable convention!

10/07/2026

A huge thank you to our 2026 APA Annual Convention sponsors!

This week would not be possible without the incredible support of our sponsors. We are deeply grateful for your generosity, partnership, and commitment to this industry.

Thank you to:
Disney Live Entertainment | Verge Aero | Pyrotecnico | Brothers Pyrotechnics Inc. | Acrisure | Ryder Rosacker McCue & Huston Insurance Services | Pyro Shows | Ricasa | WholeSure | Fireworks Over America | TNT Fireworks | Sunny | Pair’d Up | Cobra | RKM Fireworks Co. | Atlas | United Pyrotechnics | AmeriSafety | Hamburg Fireworks Display Inc. | J&M Displays | Spielbauer Fireworks | North Central Industries Inc. | Coppersmith Global Logistics | Ryder | Spirit of ‘76 | Pyro Novelties | Winco

Your support makes the magic happen ❤️

10/01/2026

Last night's Stars Over America at EPCOT was absolutely unforgettable! 🎆

The fireworks industry came together under the Disney sky for a magical evening of desserts, drinks, and fireworks! Moments like this are why convention week is so special 🤍

09/30/2026

Fireworks Included in U.S.–China "30-for-30" Tariff Framework

The American Pyrotechnics Association (APA) welcomes the inclusion of fireworks on the Administration's list of products imported from China recommended for reduced tariff treatment under the new U.S.–China "30-for-30" framework.

The announcement recognizes the unique nature of the fireworks supply chain and the important role fireworks play in American celebrations and traditions.

It also follows years of advocacy by APA and its member companies. That work has focused on educating policymakers about the industry's near-total reliance on China for fireworks production, and about the disproportionate impact tariffs have on U.S. fireworks businesses, communities and American consumers.

"This is very encouraging news for America's fireworks industry and a meaningful recognition of the case we have been making for the past several years," said Julie L. Heckman, Executive Director of the American Pyrotechnics Association. "Fireworks are an iconic part of American celebrations, from backyard traditions to the spectacular displays that bring communities together across the country. We appreciate the Trump Administration's recognition of the unique nature of our supply chain and the impact tariffs have on American businesses and consumers. APA looks forward to working with the Administration as the 30-for-30 framework moves toward implementation."

What the announcement includes:
✔ Fireworks (HTSUS 3604.10.90) are identified among the Chinese products recommended for more favorable tariff treatment.
✔ Approximately $30 billion in non-sensitive goods in each direction have been identified for potential reduced tariff treatment.
✔ Future tariff reductions will be implemented in accordance with each country's domestic legal processes.

What comes next: APA's tariff advocacy will continue. APA will work with the Administration as the framework is implemented and will continue advocating for appropriate tariff treatment for commercial-grade fireworks as well.

APA thanks the Administration and the U.S. Trade Representative for recognizing the unique circumstances facing the U.S. fireworks industry, and looks forward to continued engagement as the framework moves forward.

Read the White House announcement: https://www.whitehouse.gov/releases/2026/09/u-s-china-board-of-trade/

Stay informed at americanpyro.com.

Working procedures terms of reference U.S.-China Board of Trade “30-FOR-30” Lists of Products Recommended for Reduced Tariff Treatment The United States

09/30/2026

It has begun! ✨🏰

Welcome to the 2026 APA Annual Meeting & Convention at Walt Disney World! The fireworks industry has officially taken over Disney's Yacht & Beach Club Resorts and we could not be more excited to kick off an incredible week together.

Let the magic begin! 🇺🇸

09/30/2026

What a night! ✨

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Spark the Night reception on Shipwreck Beach!

Seeing so many friendly faces (and all the kiddos having the time of their lives!) reminded us why we love this community so much. 💕

And we’re just getting started!

ConventionLife

09/29/2026

✨ It’s officially APA week! ✨

We’ve been counting down, and the magic starts TODAY at Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club! 🏖️

Join us tonight for the Spark the Night reception on Shipwreck Beach from 6 to 7:30 PM. 🌅 Sand, sunset, and great company. And word on the boardwalk is a couple of very famous friends might just stop by to say hi... 👀🎩

We can’t wait to see everyone, and we’re especially excited to meet all the kiddos! 🎈

09/29/2026

🗳️ Last chance to vote! Polls close tomorrow at 10:29 AM ET!

If you haven't cast your ballot yet for the 2026 APA Board of Directors election, don't wait. Polls close at 10:29 AM ET on Wednesday, September 30, just one minute before the APA Annual Meeting kicks off at 10:30 AM.

Check your email for your voting link and make your voice heard before it's too late ⏰