Firework ban takes the bang out of Heber Marching Band fundraiser

HEBER CITY — The Heber Valley Marching Band is facing a significant financial challenge this summer as fireworks restrictions have sharply reduced sales at the band’s biggest annual fundraiser: a fireworks tent.

The band’s fireworks stands are operated through a contract with Phantom Fireworks, and the band will be fined if they close up shop. Typically this fundraiser generates between $18,000 and $20,000 in fundraising profits each year, according to Rachel Olsen, band booster president.

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The band opted for two booths this summer since it now supports two high schools: Deer Creek High School and Wasatch High School. But with drought and wildfires prompting a statewide personal fireworks ban, the band might not be able to meet its budget.

Olsen said it has made some firework sales this season, but it has been limited mostly to out-of-state travelers and fireworks that don’t shoot, such as sparklers and pop-its. The loss of revenue could create budget challenges for the award-winning program, which captured the 5A state marching band championship in 2024.

“A little bit of a panic, really,” said Amanda Blackinton, band director at Deer Creek High School. “We’re both first-year teachers and directors, and this is not something they prepare you for in college.”

For students, the band represents far more than music.

“You will never find another experience greater than marching band,” said Sarah Oleson, a junior and flute section leader.

“It’s my favorite part of the week,” said Katelyn Blodgett, a senior and drum major. “You just have 40 best friends, and you get to make music together.”

Other students described the program as a source of friendship, accomplishment and community.

But as sales struggle, students and directors are growing concerned about the band’s ability to cover expenses for instruments, uniforms, music, transportation and meals throughout the season.

Students said they are disappointed to get caught in the conflict over fireworks and wildfires in the state.

“It’s really sad because this is our biggest fundraiser,” said Peyton Mason, a senior and drum major. “So it’s hard that we’re still here putting in all the work, setting up, taking down, and working four-hour shifts.”

In addition to slow sales, volunteers said they’ve encountered criticism from some passersby who mistakenly assume the fireworks tent is in violation of the state firework restrictions, or who don’t know the stand is functioning as a school fundraiser.

High school junior and color guard captain Ella Olsen recalled one incident while working at the stand.

“I was sitting at my shift, minding my own business, when some ladies started driving around us, saying unkind things,” she said. “We just tried to ignore it.”

Rachel Olsen said some comments have been particularly harsh.

“Things like, ‘I hope you burn up,'” she said. “People think they can say anything and that it won’t hurt people, but there are children involved here.”

Despite the criticism, many people have expressed understanding and support for the students.

“There’s a lot of people who understand that this is for our band,” said Chris Dumas, band director at Wasatch High School. “This is kids trying to pay for their fees.”

To help make up for lost fireworks revenue, the band has launched a secondary fundraiser through Savers, collecting used clothing and household items.

The donations are accepted at the fireworks stands, located at Smith’s and Valley Hardware in Heber City.

“Since you can’t buy fireworks, please bring in bagged clothing and household items and drop them off at our fireworks booths,” said Dumas. “We’re open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.”

Band leaders also plan to hold two additional fundraisers during the upcoming school year as they work to close the budget gap.

Those who want to support the marching band directly can also contribute through the band’s fundraising website*.

Students say despite the tough fundraising week they’ve experienced so far, they’re hoping community support will help keep the program strong.

“Hopefully we’ll find a way to make money without it,” Katelyn Blodgett said.

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*KSL does not assure that the money deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account, you should consult your own advisers and otherwise proceed at your own risk.