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Fireworks 101
A GUIDE TO DIFFERENT TYPES OF FIREWORKS
Welcome to Fireworks 101, your go-to guide for understanding the wide variety of fireworks and what each type brings to the celebration. On this page, we'll introduce you to everything from classic aerial fireworks to ground based displays, helping you get familiar with the names, shapes and unique features of each product. Along with descriptions we've included short videos that showcase these fireworks in action. This guide will provide the insight you need to choose the perfect firework for your next celebration.
FIRECRACKERS
A firecracker is a small explosive device designed primarily to produce a loud bang, often used for celebrations or as part of fireworks displays. It typically consists of a paper tube filled with an explosive composition, usually gunpowder or flash powder, and is wrapped tightly to contain the explosion. Firecrackers are ignited by a fuse, and when lit, they create a loud, sharp sound as they burst. Some firecrackers also emit flashes of light or sparks. They come in various sizes and types, from small individual crackers to long strings of connected firecrackers that can explode in rapid succession.
FOUNTAIN
A fountain is a type of firework that emits a steady spray of sparks, colors, and effects when ignited, resembling the flow of a water fountain. Unlike aerial fireworks, fountains stay on the ground and create a beautiful, vertical display of sparks that can reach several feet high. They are made with tubes or cones filled with pyrotechnic composition, including metals like aluminum or magnesium for bright flashes and colors. Fountains are popular for their relatively long duration, vibrant effects, and quieter performance compared to firecrackers, making them family-friendly and great for smaller celebrations or backyard displays.
FINALE/CAKE - 500G
A 500-gram cake, often used for grand finales in fireworks displays, is a multi-shot aerial firework that contains the maximum legal amount of explosive powder allowed in consumer fireworks. These large fireworks are packed with several tubes that fire in sequence, creating an impressive and varied display of colors, effects, and sounds. When ignited, they shoot a rapid succession of bursts into the sky, often with dramatic effects like huge bursts of glittering stars, crackling chrysanthemums, and loud reports. 500-gram cakes are a favorite for finales because they offer a powerful, coordinated show with minimal setup, filling the sky with vibrant colors and booming effects, perfect for creating a memorable, climactic end to any fireworks display.
MISSILES
Missile fireworks are small, fast-flying devices that shoot into the air, often accompanied by a loud whistling sound, before bursting with a pop, crackle, or color display. These fireworks typically have a sleek, cylindrical body with fins, mimicking the look of a missile, which helps them stabilize during flight. Some missile fireworks may feature a single shot, while others come in "batteries" that release multiple missiles in rapid succession. They can vary in size, with smaller versions offering quick zips and whistles, while larger ones might include louder bursts or mini aerial effects at the end of their flight. Missile fireworks are popular for their dynamic movement and unique sound, adding excitement and variety to any fireworks show.
NOVELTY
Novelty fireworks are small, playful fireworks designed for fun and entertainment, often featuring unique shapes, motions, and effects. Unlike traditional fireworks that focus on large explosions or aerial displays, novelties come in a wide range of forms, such as tanks, cars, animals, or even spinning flowers. They are typically low to the ground and emit sparks, colorful flames, crackles, or even small popping sounds. Popular among families and kids, novelty fireworks are easy to use and often safer due to their smaller size and lower power. They add a fun, whimsical element to any celebration, bringing smiles with their creative designs and unexpected surprises.
RELOADABLES
Reloadable fireworks, also known as artillery shells or mortars, are high-impact aerial fireworks that allow users to load individual shells into a launch tube, firing them one at a time into the sky. Each shell is packed with a pyrotechnic burst that creates a powerful explosion of colors, shapes, and effects when it reaches its peak. These shells can vary in size, typically ranging from 1 inch to 2 inches in diameter, with larger shells producing bigger and more elaborate bursts. Reloadables are popular because of their versatility and the ability to customize a show by selecting different shell types. They offer an impressive, professional-grade fireworks experience with loud booms and dazzling effects, making them a go-to choice for enthusiasts looking to take their display to the next level.
ROCKETS
Rockets are a classic type of firework known for their powerful, high-flying aerial displays. Shaped like a small missile, a rocket is launched by igniting its engine, which propels it upward with a trail of sparks. Once it reaches its peak, the rocket bursts, creating a colorful explosion of light, sound, and effects such as stars, crackles, or glitter. Rockets come in various sizes, from small bottle rockets that deliver a quick burst to larger versions that create grand, multi-effect displays. They're popular for their dramatic ascent and thrilling aerial show, making them a favorite for those looking to add excitement and height to their fireworks display.
ROMAN CANDLES
Roman candles are a type of traditional firework that shoot out colorful stars or balls of light one by one from a long, tube-like casing. Each candle typically contains several shots, and they are known for their bright, steady bursts that can include different effects like crackling, whistling, or flashing. Roman candles are popular for their simplicity and beauty, making them a favorite in both small backyard displays and larger shows. When used, they should always be firmly secured to the ground or in a holder, never held in hand, for safety reasons.
SMALL FINALES/200G
Small finales, often referred to as 200-gram cakes, are compact multi-shot fireworks that pack a punch despite their smaller size. Weighing just under the legal limit of 200 grams of explosive composition, these cakes can contain anywhere from 7 to 25 shots, depending on the brand and design. Each shot creates a unique visual and sound effect, ranging from colorful bursts, crackling stars, to rapid-fire reports. 200-gram cakes are perfect for adding a powerful, yet manageable, finale to a backyard fireworks display or for spacing out moments of excitement throughout a show. They're easy to set up and ignite, making them popular for amateur enthusiasts and small displays alike.
SPARKLERS
Sparklers are handheld fireworks known for their bright, sparkling glow and slow burn. Made from a metal or bamboo stick coated with a pyrotechnic compound, they emit a shower of sparks when lit, creating a mesmerizing effect. Sparklers come in various lengths and colors, often lasting anywhere from 30 seconds to over a minute. They are a favorite for celebrations like weddings, birthdays, and the 4th of July, adding a personal touch to any event. Although sparklers are generally considered safe for kids under adult supervision, they burn at high temperatures, so handling them with care is essential.