Celebrate Safely This July: Know Maryland's Fireworks Laws and Enjoy Professional Fireworks Displays

As Independence Day celebrations begin across Maryland, the New Windsor Fire Department would like to remind everyone to celebrate safely by understanding Maryland's fireworks laws and attending one of the many professional fireworks displays taking place throughout Carroll County.

Every year, fireworks-related injuries and fires result in emergency responses that could have been prevented. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to leave them to the professionals.

Maryland Fireworks Laws

Maryland law only permits the sale and use of certain **approved novelty and ground-based fireworks**.

Fireworks That Are Legal
Residents may legally purchase and use:
* Gold-label sparklers
* Certain novelty items such as snakes, toy caps, and paper snappers
* Ground-based sparkler devices including:
* Fountains
* Cones
* Ground spinners
* Wheels

These devices are designed to remain on the ground and do not launch into the air.

Fireworks That Are Illegal
The following consumer fireworks are prohibited in Maryland:
* Bottle rockets
* Roman candles
* Mortars
* Aerial shells
* Firecrackers
* Reloadable launch tubes
* Girandolas
* Homemade or modified fireworks

Professional firework displays require permits issued through the Maryland State Fire Marshal and are conducted by licensed pyrotechnic professionals.

Fireworks Safety Tips

Even legal fireworks can cause serious injuries. The New Windsor Fire Department encourages everyone to follow these safety tips:
* Never allow young children to handle sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures exceeding **2,000°F**.
* Always have a bucket of water or garden hose readily available.
* Never relight fireworks that fail to ignite.
* Only use fireworks outdoors in open areas away from homes, vehicles, dry grass, and trees.
* Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
* Keep pets indoors during fireworks displays.
* Dispose of used fireworks by soaking them in water before placing them in the trash.
* Never use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Professional Fireworks Displays Around Carroll County
Looking for a safe and exciting way to celebrate? Consider attending one of these professionally managed fireworks events:

Mount Airy Fireworks Celebration
**Friday, July 3, 2026**
📍 Mount Airy Volunteer Fire Company Carnival Grounds
1008 Twin Arch Road, Mount Airy

* Gates Open: 5:00 PM
* Live music and family activities
* Food vendors
* Declaration of Independence reading
* **Professional Fireworks approximately 9:30 PM**
* Free admission and parking

Carroll County Farm Museum July 4th Celebration
**Saturday, July 4, 2026**
📍 Carroll County Farm Museum
500 South Center Street, Westminster

* Gates Open: 4:00 PM
* Family games
* Food vendors
* Live entertainment
* **One of Carroll County's largest professional fireworks displays around 9:30 PM**
* Vehicle admission fee applies.

Manchester Fire Company Carnival Fireworks
**Saturday, July 4, 2026**
📍 Manchester Fire Company Carnival Grounds
York Street, Manchester

* Carnival rides and games
* Great food
* Community entertainment
* **Professional fireworks at approximately 9:30 PM**

Red, White & Farm
**Saturday, July 25, 2026**
📍 Local Homestead Products
2425 Marston Road
New Windsor, Maryland

Celebrate America's 250th Birthday during this inaugural community event featuring:

* Live music throughout the afternoon and evening
* Local breweries, wineries, cideries, and distilleries
* Food vendors
* Craft vendors
* Family-friendly atmosphere
* **Spectacular professional fireworks display to conclude the evening**

Admission is just **$20 per vehicle** (up to 15 passengers), making it an affordable way for families and friends to celebrate together.

Have a Safe and Happy Fourth of July!

The members of the New Windsor Fire Department wish everyone a safe and enjoyable Independence Day season. By choosing professional fireworks displays and following Maryland's fireworks laws, you can help protect your family, your neighbors, and our community from preventable fires and injuries.

If an emergency occurs, call 9-1-1 immediately.