INNSBROOK, Mo. — Every year thousands of ecstatic people, near and far, trek to small town Innsbrook in Warren County for the spectacular "Sky Wars," the United States Fireworks Championship.
"These shows are timed down to the one hundredth of a second to the beats of the music. Last year, artists from 31 states were here," said Rob Cima, one of the event's organizers.
It's a chance for some of the nation's best pyrotechnic artists to compete for the title, show off their signature fireballs and light up the sky.
"A pyro-musical that's done well, it'll raise the hair on your arms and it will bring grown people to tears. It's amazing," said Rob Cima.
However, this year not one powerful pyrotechnic will pop off.
Instead of non-stop booms, bangs an ahs, you might say Rob Cima and his "Sky Wars" crew expect a potential war in the sky: rounds of thunder and rumbling rain are expect to hit on Saturday.
"Even if we get another quarter of an inch or a half inch, there's nowhere for that water to go," added Cima.
As a result, their three-hour, sold-out show, is a no go.
It's the first time in 19 years they've had to cancel the popular pyro-musical competition.
"Everybody's disappointed. I feel the worst for these crews that have been working on their shows for almost a year. Many of whom already reached the site," said Rob Cima.
About 11,000 pyrotechnic lovers were expected to pack a massive field for the big show.
You bet the fireworks fans also wish the awesome event would've taken off.
"It's like watching the Fourth of July in September," said Patty Gallatin who lives in nearby Wright City.
Gallatin's son loves to flock to the annual fun.
"You see lots of families laughing and people gathering. It's fun," said Gallatin.
Fans can hold on to their tickets because the nation's biggest pyro-musical showdown will be back next year.
"Yes, we will bigger and better," added Rob Cima.
Next year's Sky Wars will be held on Sept. 27.