The calm was conspicuous Saturday afternoon in one area of Kalihi where illegal aerial fireworks usually begin exploding days or weeks before New Year’s.

Aerials still boomed periodically. Some people set off a few bottle rockets. Kids tossed "Pop-Its," the little paper wrappers that snap after hitting a hard surface. But residents on and around Gulick Avenue said that, up to Saturday afternoon, the fireworks and aerial explosions were noticeably less when compared with previous years.

Many attributed it to the new law banning consumer fireworks, besides firecrackers sold via permits, on Oahu.

"I’m glad," said Kikue Oyama, 87, of Gulick Avenue. "I don’t hear the boom, boom."

The fireworks bombs usually shake her house at all hours, starting about a week before New Year’s. On Saturday, she noticed only one explosion. She said she also liked the ban because children often used novelty fireworks without supervision.

The law, which also requires the city to stop issuing firecracker permits 10 days before New Year’s Eve, might have been the reason for fewer permits issued. They fell by about 15 percent compared with December 2010. Each $25 permit allowed the holder to buy up to 5,000 firecrackers.

Honolulu fire Capt. Terry Seelig said by 8 p.m. there were four probable fireworks-related fires on the island: a small wildfire and three rubbish fires.

After dark, police responded to numerous fireworks complaints.

Regardless of the new ordinance’s effect on the night celebration, some residents were pleased with the change that came over the past few days.

Loud explosions were "noticeably absent," said Richard Gabatino of Kealoha Street. "Normally, you would see the fireworks going off around Thanksgiving."

But some were disappointed about a celebration without sparklers, sprinklers and fountains.

Franchette Ilovino, 14, previously used ground spinner fireworks and sparklers to celebrate with her family. "It’s kind of like boring now," she said. "I can’t really have that much fun like I used to, just popping. I really don’t know what else to do, but just eat."

Albert Abellanosa, 45, of Lohilani Street said he understood how it could be frustrating for Filipinos who he said have a penchant for fireworks at New Year’s.

"It’s a tradition to these people," said Abellanosa, who is Filipino. "Everybody wants to get loud for New Year. What’s new if (it’s) only silent? You have to mean it."

On Gulick Avenue, Cross Martinez was grilling shrimp at his uncle’s house, where about 20 people were gathering. He said the family usually spends about $1,000 on fireworks, but spent only about $250 for this new year because of the law.

"It sucks," said Martinez, whose daughter likes to use the novelty fireworks. "We’re still celebrating, but without the fireworks it’s not as good."