Western Pyrotechnic Association

The Western Pyrotechnic Association is an independent offshoot of the Pyrotechnics Guild International. It was formed in 1989 by west-coast fireworks enthusiasts who were inconvenienced by making long trips to Iowa and Indiana for the annual PGI convention. The club holds an annual convention called Western Winter Blast, in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, on President's Day weekend. Additionally, a smaller and less formal event known simply as "Do It" is usually held in October.

ABOUT the WPA

The WPA was founded in 1989 by a few pyrotechnic enthusiasts who decided a west coast based organization was long overdue. In the spirit of the PGI and other pyrotechnic organizations, a network of members started the club to share their love for fireworks with each other, and to hold events that were both entertaining and educational. Club growth has soared since then and just keeps getting bigger every year. The Club hosts two events every year:

Western Winter Blast

President’s Day Weekend, annually. Since 1990 it has been held in Lake Havasu City; right on the beautiful Colorado River in Arizona. There are seminars, trade shows, class C and pyrotechnic supply vending, open Class C and Class B shooting (after members pass a safety class), BBQ's, pyrotechnic seminars, afterglow parties, and much more. Each night there are public displays (shows) for members and non members alike. Pyrotechnic companies from around the world perform some of the best displays seen anywhere. The WWB is the premier pyrotechnic event of the Winter Time. Now more than ever, people come to the Winter Blast from across the globe, and with good reason. Not only is it an exciting event, but the weather is warm and the sun is shining... (most of the time). Pyro enthusiasts who live in freezing and snowing areas are finding a summer pyro haven in the wintertime at the Western Winter Blast.

Do It

DO IT is a spin-off of an event first held in 1998 across the river at the Avi Casino and Resort in Laughlin, NV; then called Pow Wow. This event came from the need to have a second event during the year and geared more towards the hobbyist. While in 1998 there were few participants, this event has grown in popularity and attendance each year and now boasts attendance in the triple digits. This event is geared towards those who like to develop and create pyrotechnic items and is also now held in Lake Havasu City, AZ To learn more or to find out how to join, visit the WPA website at http://www.westernpyro.org