Fireworks sales have started off slow, but folks we talked with at several local fireworks stands are hopeful they will sell out.
In Kern County, only charitable and non-profit groups are allowed to run fireworks stands, so in lean years it can take a toll on humanitarian and children's needs.
"Sunday was slow. Monday was slow, but today was great. And, tomorrow we will probably sell out," said Robert Rayes with Teen Challenge, which uses the money to keep teens off the streets and clean of alcohol and drugs.
If their fundraising doesn't meet the needs, there is the potential they would have to turn teens away.
Julian Love and the ministry he is working with, does mission work in Tijuana, bringing school supplies to kids there.
"If they don't have the school supplies, they are unable to go to school," he said.
Love says it was a slow start.
Across town in northwest Bakersfield, it started off a little different, but they still say it could be better.
"On the 1st, it usually does $1,700 to $2,000. I think because the first day was a Sunday we did rather well, but then Monday was pretty much dead," said Carlos Rodriquez of the Rosedale Racers.
The group is are getting ready to send 27 kids to a national track and field event, so every penny counts.
"The problem is that since the 4th falls on a week day, we didn't get a rush like we normally get. On the weekend we normally get quite a few people, it's been pretty steady. Consistently with last year, I think we are just a little bit under with what we did last year," said John Goetjen with the Bakersfield Alliance Soccer Club.
You still have time to buy your fireworks, but make sure they are legal for where you live. The easiest way to do that is to ask the vendor you buy them from.
