On Independence Day, there's no tradition more loved than fireworks -- those awe- inspiring displays of glittering explosions that force even the most attention-deficit youngster to stop and watch.
These impressive exhibitions don't appear in the sky by magic. A ton of planning, dedication, and passion goes into each and every show -- of which there are more than 14,000 planned for the U.S. throughout the 2011 July 4th week.
So who's behind these mind-blowing spectacles?
From the Olympics and inaugurations to celebrating the nation's birthday, five family-founded companies have ruled the industry for decades. And with a new generation of pyro-technicians in the wings, they'll be making us say ooo and ahhh for a few more years.
By Colleen Leahey, reporter
NEXT: Zambelli Fireworks