July 4th drone shows will light up skies in dozens of cities this year

July 4 celebrations may look different in some cities this year as they swap the crackle of fireworks for synchronized drone displays.

Independence Day drone shows are planned for dozens of cities across the country, from Salt Lake City to Sarasota, Florida. The shows, produced by a variety of vendors, involve hundreds of illuminated drones programmed to carry out choreographed routines set to catchy songs like "Firework" by Katy Perry. 

Not everyone is on board with the shift from old-school pyrotechnics, but the companies behind the drone shows promise to deliver all the pomp and circumstance of traditional fireworks shows and more, using awe-inspiring displays that capture the spirit of American independence.