Long Hill Township, in Morris County, is made up of the villages of Stirling, Millington, Gillette, Meyersville, and Homestead Park. Each village has its own unique character, with Stirling serving as the central hub, Millington and Gillette being served by NJ Transit stations, and Meyersville being known for its rural charm near the Great Swamp. Millington, New Jersey, is a small, close-knit village in Long Hill Township, Morris County, with around 3,000 residents. Nestled between the Passaic River and the Great Swamp, this family company offers a pastoral, family-friendly atmosphere with a strong sense of local history. And if you want fireworks, like the REAL DEAL fireworks, we introduce you to the Garden State Fireworks Company.
Fireworks originated in ancient China, with the earliest versions dating back to around 200 BC, when bamboo stalks were thrown into fires to explode with a loud bang due to the air inside.
Modern fireworks are made by packing a shell with black powder, a timed fuse, and small chemical pellets called “stars” that produce color and effects. These stars contain metal salts—like strontium for red, barium for green, and copper for blue—which burn in vibrant colors when ignited. A lifting charge launches the shell into the sky, where a delayed burst charge ignites the stars in pre-arranged patterns. Today, large fireworks shows utilize computer-controlled firing systems that electronically ignite each shell with precise timing, often synchronized to music for a dramatic effect.
A typical high-end professional fireworks show contains the explosive equivalent of about 200 to 1,000 pounds of TNT, depending on the size and number of shells used. Most of the energy comes from black powder, which is less powerful than TNT but still significant in large quantities. While nowhere near military-grade explosions, these shows still unleash substantial force in a controlled, artistic form. And then there’s the MOAB! No, it’s not the “Mother of All Bombs” referenced by the Military, but in fireworks language, the term MOAB means (Massive Ordnance Air Blast), which has about 11 tons of TNT.
During a professional fireworks finale like the Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks, the number of shells launched per second can be extremely high, especially during the grand finale. Here’s a breakdown: A Typical Finale Rate would launch approximately 50 to 100 shells per second, with the peak intensity (Final Moments) capable of launching up to 150–200 shells per second.
Tucked on a quiet road just along the Great Swamp of New Jersey, Garden State Fireworks (GSF), headquartered in Millington, New Jersey, has a legacy that dates back to 1890, when Italian immigrant Augustine Santore founded the company. Trained as an apprentice under a master fireworker in Italy, Augustine brought his expertise to the United States and quickly established a fireworks plant in Millington. What began as a modest operation grew into a nationally recognized business, passed down through four generations of the Santore family. Augustine’s sons—Nunzio, Charles, and Ralph—continued the family trade, and their children would carry on the tradition into the 21st century.
Garden State became known not only for its traditional Italian-style multi-break aerial shells but also for its innovation in pyrotechnic technology. In the early 1980s, Garden State Fireworks was among the first to introduce choreographed pyro musicals—fireworks displays set to music—redefining the American fireworks experience. Their work quickly garnered international recognition.
Beyond competitions, Garden State Fireworks has been called upon to illuminate some of the world’s most iconic celebrations. They were part of the 1986 centennial celebration of the Statue of Liberty, contributed to the closing ceremonies of the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, and have dazzled crowds in Washington, D.C., during Fourth of July celebrations and presidential inaugurations—including the 2021 inauguration. Their work has lit up Times Square on New Year’s Eve, accompanied by major events such as Super Bowl XLVIII, the MTV Video Music Awards, and numerous celebrations across Disney World and Coney Island.
In 1982 and 1983, the company won back-to-back World Fireworks Championships in Monte Carlo. A few years later, in 1986, they were awarded the Silver Jupiter at Montreal’s prestigious International Fireworks Festival. In 1991 and again in 1994, they claimed top honors at the San Sebastián International Fireworks Competition in Spain.
Garden State Fireworks has illuminated skies across the state for events such as KaBoom! Fireworks on the Navesink (Red Bank), Celebrate Our Stars & Stripes (The Amboys), Feast of Mt. Carmel (Berkeley Heights), July 4th displays at Liberty State Park (Jersey City), rooftop fireworks at Golden Nugget Casino (Atlantic City), anniversary shows at Princeton University, annual celebrations at Trump National Golf Course (Bedminster), Coney Island Amusement Park summer series, New Jersey State Aquarium, New Jersey Symphony, New Jersey Pops, Raceway Park, NJ Jackals, Sussex Miners, New Jersey Cardinals, Stone Pony (Asbury Park), and Hilton Hotel Atlantic City New Year’s Eve, among many others.
For those who enjoy traveling and fireworks, Disney is a must-visit destination. Yes, Disney World fireworks come from Jersey, yep, Millington, New Jersey and Garden State Fireworks.
Initially settled in the 1730s, Millington thrived as a farming and milling community along the Passaic River before the arrival of rail in 1872. The old stone train station, built in 1901 (now a café), the Boyle–Hudspeth–Benson House (circa 1750), and the old schoolhouse-turned-town hall all speak to its historical roots. Today, Millington combines that heritage with amenities like a top-rated public school, The Raptor Trust wildlife rehabilitation center, and easy rail access to New York City, all wrapped in serene suburban charm. And now Millington has the popular Oakflower Brewing Company.
Throughout all this, their roots in Millington have remained strong. Garden State Fireworks still operates from its original township, where its manufacturing and headquarters serve as a local landmark. In 2020, the Long Hill Historical Society marked the company’s 130th anniversary with a public talk featuring Nunzio Santore, celebrating not only the Santore family’s contribution to the fireworks industry but also their role in the cultural and economic fabric of Millington.
Garden State Fireworks began with Augustine Santore, an Italian immigrant who brought his pyrotechnic expertise to New Jersey in the 1890s after training under a master fireworker in Italy. He established the family business in Millington, laying the foundation for what would become one of America’s premier fireworks companies. His sons, Nunzio, Charles, and Ralph, carried the business into the mid-20th century, expanding its reach and refining its operations while maintaining a commitment to craftsmanship and safety.
The third generation has been led by August Santore Sr. and Nunzio Santore Jr., who ushered in a new era of innovation, introducing computer synchronization and choreographed displays that set the company apart on the global stage. Under their leadership, Garden State Fireworks won top honors at prestigious international competitions in Monaco and Spain. The fourth generation, led by Chris Santore, continued to elevate the brand’s reputation with large-scale, nationally televised events, including the Statue of Liberty Centennial and the annual July 4th show on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
Now, the fifth generation has brought in Madison Santore, who is learning the artistry and science behind the family trade. As the first woman in the family to step into a leadership role, she represents the next chapter in a 130-year legacy of Santore innovation and dedication to pyrotechnic excellence. Madison, now 21, took the lead on-site, designing the layout and directing the team from start to finish under the watchful eye and proud support of her father, Chris Santore. Garden State Fireworks continues to push the boundaries of pyrotechnic artistry while remaining proudly tied to its origins in this small-town community.
Fireworks manufacturing is an inherently hazardous industry, where even the most controlled environments carry significant risk due to the volatile combination of chemicals, powders, and ignition systems involved. Despite strict safety protocols, the process of mixing, assembling, and storing explosive materials poses a constant danger to workers and surrounding communities, making vigilance, regulation, and experience crucial in preventing accidents. Garden State has had its issues over the years as well.
In July 1952, a powerful explosion at the Millington site blew the roof off a fireworks building, launching debris over 180 feet. Fortunately, no one was injured, but the blast was felt for miles and marked one of the earliest major accidents at the facility.
From the story above, on the night of July 13, 1952, a fire at the Company plant in Millington, NJ, caused a powerful explosion that destroyed a refuse shed and was heard up to five miles away. The blast, believed to have been sparked by a carelessly tossed cigarette, ignited leftover fireworks and chemicals from that year’s Independence Day sales. Though dramatic, the explosion caused no injuries. Damage was estimated at 0, and the incident drew over 100 onlookers and emergency crews, including the Millington First Aid Squad and fire companies from Millington and Stirling.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, several small fires and minor accidents occurred on-site, typically involving preparation buildings where shells were assembled. These incidents led to increased oversight from agencies like OSHA and the ATF, as well as improved spacing and safety measures. On March 9, 1983, a fire destroyed one of the plant’s smaller buildings. Fire crews contained the blaze, and no injuries were reported; however, it once again underscored the dangers associated with fireworks manufacturing.
There’s a great story about how the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey wanted to build a new airport in the 1950s to support the massive expansion of airliner traffic and become the metro area’s fourth and largest airport, right on top of Millington’s Garden State Fireworks.
Back in the booming skies of the 1950s, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey had a bold—and some might say bonkers—idea: plop the biggest airport in the region smack in the middle of Morris County. Their eyes locked onto the Great Swamp, a vast patchwork of wetlands stretching across New Vernon, Green Village, Meyersville, and Millington. If they got their way, jets would be roaring overhead, and the peaceful hum of nature (and fireworks) would’ve been replaced with taxiways and terminals.
But there was one little problem: Garden State Fireworks was already there with the Santore family’s fireworks compound standing right in the blast zone of the planned jetport. It wasn’t just a workplace; it was home, history, and pyrotechnic passion all in one. If the plan went forward, the Santores would have been forced to relocate under eminent domain….boom……gone.
Only, the people of the Great Swamp weren’t going to let that happen. Led by the tireless Helen Fenske, a fierce coalition of local residents, conservationists, and lovers of peace and quiet decided to fight back—smartly. Instead of shouting, they started buying. Parcel by parcel, with private donations, they acquired swampy acres and handed them over to the federal government as conservation land. By 1960, they’d built enough momentum (and marshland) to form the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge.
Faced with mounting pressure and a growing no-go zone, the Port Authority finally waved the white flag. The jetport was grounded for good, and the Santore’s fireworks manufacturing family business was spared.
Today, companies like Garden State Fireworks rely heavily on sophisticated computer systems and specialized software to design and execute pyrotechnic shows with extreme precision. Using programs such as ShowSim, Finale 3D, or FireOne choreography software, technicians pre-program every aspect of a fireworks display—from timing and altitude to shell type and effect duration—often aligned to a musical soundtrack.
The show script is then uploaded into a digital firing system, such as FireOne, which replaces traditional manual firing with electronic cues. These cues are triggered down to 1/100th of a second, ensuring that each shell bursts exactly on the beat, creating a seamless fusion of fireworks and sound. The software also enables 3D simulations of the entire show, allowing designers to preview and troubleshoot the display virtually before any physical elements are launched.
In addition to fireworks, GSF now creates breathtaking drone light shows. You can even catch one on Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at the Berkeley Heights Mt. Carmel Festival. Drones have become a popular and exciting night showcase due to their ability to be creatively controlled into patterns, characters, and themes.
In 2020, August Santore expanded into drones as part of the nighttime sky shows. To put on a drone show, Santore and his team must be licensed and receive special waivers from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Licensed pilots and technicians cooperate with local jurisdictions and operate their drones at an altitude of 400 feet.
For companies like Garden State Fireworks, these new devices and tools transform each show into a blend of art, engineering, and digital choreography, enabling them to produce award-winning performances at major venues, including the National Mall in Washington, DC, sports stadiums, and concerts nationwide.
To give you some perspective on just how big Garden State Fireworks are, here are the top five fireworks companies in the world, based on a combination of international reputation, historical significance, scale of production, and the prestige of events they’ve produced:
Another fireworks company, based at the former Hudson River Drive-In, was founded in 1939 as Alonzo Fireworks. They were perhaps best known for presenting the closing ceremony fireworks display for the 2000 Sydney Olympics. In 2015, the business was sold to Chris Santore and Augie Santore Jr., who renamed it Santore’s World Famous Fireworks, which also operates Garden State Fireworks. That company’s clients include Daytona International Speedway, Walt Disney World, and Anheuser-Busch, and displays range in price from ,000 to 0,000.
Congratulations to such an iconcic New Jersey family business.
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