The Fourth of July fireworks show in Lahaina has drawn crowds of around 20,000 people the last two years.

LAHAINA – As Independence Day nears, the Maui Chamber of Commerce and its Westside Committee are actively fundraising to bring in the needed money to make the event happen.

Chamber President Pamela Tumpap said that each year, the organization hopes to announce earlier on that “it’s a go!”

Generally, the full funds are not realized until just before the event.

Several expenses have gone up this year, including the fireworks and insurance due to larger crowds.

Overall costs have risen $5,000, putting the event price tag at $49,450.

The County of Maui Office of Economic Development has contributed $10,000, and, so far, Maui businesses have contributed $28,950.

Hard Rock Cafe is currently the top contributor at $1,500. Other major donors who have contributed $1,000 include Expeditions, Kimo’s Restaurant, Old Lahaina Luau, Royal Lahaina Resort and VIP Food Service.

To pull the event off, Maui Chamber of Commerce must raise $10,500.

The chamber’s staff and volunteers are currently asking past donors to give what they can – and a bit more, if possible, given the added costs.

They are confident businesses and community members will rally together to raise the funds. Tumpap noted that “they always have.”

“It comes down to the wire each year, but we have a very generous community who cherishes this event,” Tumpap commented.

“Losing this important celebration is not an option! It is too important. Can you imagine a Fourth of July without fireworks? We don’t want to.”

The community’s help is needed. No donation is too large or small. Mail contributions to 95 Mahalani St., Suite 22A, Wailuku, HI 96793, or call 244-0081 for information.