Beachgoers near the Kailua boat ramp were surprised to learn that this year there will be no fireworks show at the bay.

"We are all sad about it," said Jackie Aweau who traditionally ends her Fourth of July open house party after the fireworks display.  She believes many people will be caught off-guard this holiday.

"I really think, we are so used to this last minute save, that no one really, really believes it’s not going to happen." said Aweau.

A group of small business owners who initially organized the Save Kailua Fireworks effort announced earlier this year that they would have to bow out.

They had hoped a non-profit group would step forward to shepherd the event.  No one did.

The Kailua Chamber of Commerce hasn’t been involved in organizing the event for the past 10 years, but just two weeks ago said it took a call from someone willing to donate $15,000 dollars.  Commerce staff said the event costs can run almost five times that amount.

Some Kailua residents hope a dark holiday may prompt a white knight to come forward for next year.

"This might be a good thing.  So we don’t have it, we don’t have it.  Maybe something will come of that and make it work," said Mike Hedwal.

Webster Alluli says it's a shame, but he feels fireworks are not worth going out of his neighborhood for.

“I am probably not going to drive across the hill, so I will have a quiet fourth of july at mom's house," said Alluli.