Dozens of cities across the U.S. will host drone shows on the Fourth of July this year, seeing them as preferable to fireworks. Here's why.

Now in its third year, the La Jolla Fourth of July drone show will feature 500 drones creating a 15-minute patriotic display starting at 9 p.m. on Friday.

Over 70% of some 140 people who responded to The Times’ question: “Do you prefer fireworks or a drone show for the Fourth of July?” said they preferred drones.