They were better than most in Phoenix, simply because many shows were cancelled due to weather. Consider yourself lucky that ours were merely 15 minutes late. Of course last year's was better: they were making up for the fireworks at that other community event that they had to cancel due to weather, according to what I heard.  I also thought they had several grand finales; they just weren't at the end. My friends and I kept joking that this was the end of the show, and then more fireworks went off. It was a little confusing, but I would rather have what seemed like 3 grand finales than just one. They just weren't at the end, but they seemed pretty "grand" to me.

Also, the event was free to attend, as in we did not have to pay extra money to go, unlike Tempe or some other cities. I am glad I stayed home this year to watch it, as I had a great view from my home and thus didn't have to battle traffic. It was a stress-free weekend, and I thought Maricopa did a great job.

Im guessing that all of the people that thought the fireworks display was awesome either have no children or older children, because it is difficult with little children to sit still and wait for something. So thats fine, you will understand someday I guess. Also they were not FREE!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have seen better shows then this in Phoenix and I don't think that being a new town or a small town has anything to do with your ability to put on a good fireworks display.

Has anyone dared to call the City and find out why the show was long? Just curious.  

Bear in mind that mat times portions of these events like fireworks and entertainment are paid for by donations from local sponsors, so your tax dollars may not be involved.  If you are really concerned call PRL and find out how much they cost, how they were paid for, then tell us how you could have done it better.

What a super idea.

Contact the city, in writing, and find out what the budget and cost breakdown for the fireworks show.

Contact multiple fireworks vendors about pricing and scope of their shows.

Compare and contrast what the city spent to what the other vendors would have charged, if they were available at all.

Then report back here with any and all improvements to be made next year.

That would be super.

Well, I didn't feel like reading all 5 pages of posts. Yes it did start late, yes we had some interesting weather, and yes there was a great police and Fire Dept presence. While Copa is not Cali and we are not allowed to do fireworks, and this city is still a newbie city, we enjoyed the show. This was our first one, and if we stay in town next year, we will be at Pacana again And what does being republic or anything political have to do with just getting outside and enjoying a show with the fam?