Rain hampers fireworks tent sales

Tampa, Florida - There are more than a hundred tents set up to sell fireworks around the Tampa Bay area. The Fourth of July is the biggest day of the year for firework sales, but when it rains, sales suffer.

"The people don't want to get out of their cars and go inside, because they don't want to get wet. They also don't want to carry the product from the tent to the car, because the product can get wet," said Sharon Honeywell-Johnson, owner of Galaxy fireworks.

The rain hasn't dampened the desire to buy fireworks for people like Joe Smith, who has spent nearly $500.

"I love the mortars, and I usually get three or four for the grand finale. This is the second time I've been up here this year," he said.

The workers at the tents are sub-contractors and they're hoping for a bright and sunny Independence Day to boost sales.

"They work on commission and when they're not selling, they're not making money. But as it gets closer to July 4th, they'll be swamped with people," Honeywell-Johnson said.

The customers also want the rain to let up.

"I don't want it to rain. I want to see my fireworks, we're getting big fireworks," said consumer Cindy Graff.