James and McKayela Hornor at 11pm on the 4th (we are a little tired in this one!)
Hello everyone, my name is James. Originally from the Chicago-land area, I grew up without fireworks. Truly sad when looking back at it, but I'm making up for lost time! When I met my wife who is from Wakarusa, we moved closer to the center of the Michiana area. That first summer, we went to her family's 4th of July BBQ, and I had no idea what to bring. "Maybe some potato salad?" Like any good Hoosier, McKayela said, "You bring FIREWORKS, you idiot!" The journey into a new world of fireworks started on that day. I have met some amazing friends and mentors along the way-most importantly, Harold 'Spider' Draves.
At XL Fireworks you come for the fireworks but stay for the conversation and laughs.
Do you know what XL stands for? We have the X (Xander) and the L (Lena) that makes up XL Fireworks! These are our two children.
I love all fireworks. I have found a new enjoyment from ground items and fountains with my kids while finding those beautiful Willows for McKayela (her favorite effect). But don't you worry. I still love getting that pyro laugh every time I hear those louder items (shhh).
Some of our artillery shells for the 2025 season
You will see all of us working at some point in the store- from stocking shelves and pricing items with the kids or either of the adults helping you find those hard to find items. We are both teachers in the off-season and we love to help others. Ask all the questions you want at XL Fireworks.