The day recognizing our country’s inception will not be celebrated in three Arizona cities this year because many are concerned that potential fires could erupt.

Holiday displays have already been canceled in Cave Creek, Flagstaff, and Williams—the cancelation in Cave Creek is especially disappointing because it is the first in 24 years.

Cave Creek’s fireworks permit was denied during a June 18 town council meeting when a majority of council members believed that safety concerns justified the event’s cancellation.

Some, like Harold’s Corral owner Danny Picaquadio, were dissatisfied with the decision; Picaquadio insisted before the council that modifications (such as water programs, landscaping, and use of smaller shells) would offset the risk of a fire outbreak.

In Flagstaff to the north, Claire Harper, a city spokeswoman, said they are celebrating with a holiday parade, concert, and activities instead—fireworks will be absent. In addition, the Continal Country Club will be hosting Lights on the Lawn from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. 

Flagstaff’s July Fourth celebrations haven’t been canceled since 2010. In neighboring Williams, July 4 celebrations were absent for 10 years until 2017, only to be cancelled now again.

Fireworks exploding in the night sky are an integral part of America’s Fourth of July celebrations, which is why their absence is always unfortunate.