Stallion Battalion's early bird strategy evades firework tariff sting

Despite nationwide price hikes, the Oologah Stallion Battalion fireworks stand reports a slower but successful Fourth of July season.

As Fourth of July celebrations light up the skies, many Americans are feeling the sting of higher fireworks prices due to tariffs. But one small-town band in Oklahoma says their vendor planning ahead helped them avoid the worst of the impact.

In Oologah, the Stallion Battalion marching band is not only celebrating Independence Day — they're also working to fund a big trip next spring.

Fireworks Prices Climb Nationwide

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 95 percent of fireworks sold in the U.S. are imported from China. This year, new tariffs caused prices to spike across many states, catching some fireworks stands off guard.

Advance Stocking Pays Off

But in Oologah, Jon Matthews, the high school band director, says their stand fared well — thanks to early product stocking by their supplier.

“We are in a good spot honestly because TNT usually stocks most of their product well before the season,” Matthews said. “So they actually had probably 80 to 90 percent of their product in a warehouse before that tariff hit.”

This is the 20th year the Oologah Stallion Battalion has run the stand, and Matthews says community support has been consistent.

“The town usually supports the Oologah band really well,” he said.

Raising Funds for a Big Performance

While they’ve sidestepped tariff trouble, the band is counting on strong sales to support their goal: a spring trip to Disneyland.

“Part of our fundraising is to raise money for the students,” Matthews said. “As they’re working here, they’re going to get credit for their hours that they’ve worked toward a trip. We’re going to go to Disneyland next spring.”

Senior Ethan Kubula said it’s more than just a vacation.

“We’re going to get to perform with a Disney orchestra person, and we’re going to get to play Disney soundtracks and stuff like that,” Kubula said. “So it’s going to be really neat. I’m excited.”

Community Support Continues

The band’s fireworks stand will remain open Friday, with special deals on remaining inventory. It is located at 12002 US-169, Oologah, OK 74053.