Thursday nights in the summer the fireworks explode over Old Orchard Beach Pier. The weekly display draws tourists, who spend money.

I don’t always manage to get there when I am visiting – family, friends and weather can all be contributing factors as to whether I make the trek down the beach from where I am staying.

For many though, the fireworks are a priority, one of the highlights of the week. But it seems like an increasingly short highlight.

The two evenings I attended this summer had eight-minute displays. Or maybe it was six, I wasn’t paying close attention. I’m sure it was longer last year.

And much longer a couple of decades ago. But I’m not going to complain – it is free. Or at least I don’t see the direct costs. I’m sure the merchants who sponsor it add a penny or two to their prices to offset the costs.

So today, since it is Thursday, some pictures from earlier this month of the weekly display.