Here are the fireworks you might want to get for New Year’s Eve, and Myrtle Beach area laws
Correction: This story is being updated to correct the misspelling of Factory Outlet Fireworks. (Updated 9:04 a.m.)
Next to the Fourth of July, New Year’s Eve is the biggest time of year for fireworks in the Myrtle Beach area. Here’s how to prepare for it.
First, know that if you have not bought fireworks already, be prepared to wait in line. Factory Outlet Fireworks employee Betsy Crutcher said she expects this Saturday and Sunday to be extremely busy as people prepare for the evening of Dec. 31.
“There can be lines around the store,” she said.
Second, know the local laws when setting of fireworks. In Myrtle Beach, people are allowed to set off fireworks on their own private property but not on public property, including the beach. Violating this could result in a $250 fine. Fireworks are typically prohibited from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. but residents are allowed to set them off until 12:30 a.m. on Jan. 1.
Third, determine which fireworks you want to buy. The Sun News talked to Crutcher at Factory Outlet Fireworks, 603 Highway 17, Little River, and Michelle Turner at Phantom Fireworks, 3172 Waccamaw Blvd., to give some recommendations.
Fireworks for big shows
Lock and Load, $299.99
Turner recommended this kit if you’re trying to impress. She said it’s one of the loudest fireworks they carry and is customizable. It comes with four reusable fiberglass tubes used to launch aerial fireworks, and 24 shells of various colors and effects. It allows buyers to set off a bunch of fireworks all at once or spread them out.
X-9 Panoramic Finale, $299.99
Turner also recommended this one as a good ending firework. Once lit, it will set off 9 aerial fireworks. She said it is a colorful and has a good variety of effects.
Mystic Warrior, $69.99
Crutcher said this is one of her personal favorite fireworks. It has several double-sided mortars inside, meaning each time you light off a firework, two aerial fireworks will be set off. She said these fireworks will go over 100 feet high.
Sky Crisis, $159.99
Crutcher said this is a good finale firework. It’s shaped in a rectangle so the fireworks end up spread out throughout the sky and it lasts for 30 seconds.
Fireworks for families
Eye of the Storm, $39.99
This firework sets off 16 aerial shots that range in color and style. Turner said you only light this firework once and it’s exciting, but not loud enough to upset the neighbors.
Raging Rottweiler, $24.99
This is another 16 aerial shot firework. Turner said it’s small, fun to watch and sells well, mainly because it’s often on sale.
Wild and Crazy, $24.99
Crutcher said The Firework Factory is running a buy-one-get-one-free sale for this fireworks. She recommends it for families because it is small but sends up “ziggy zaggy” aerial shots.
Pooping Dog, $1.99
Children usually love small fireworks like the Pooping Dog or The Smoke Tank. These small fireworks remain on the ground and can be a cheaper and less overwhelming option for kids.
