Different Types of Fireworks: A Complete Guide
Fireworks are a staple of celebrations, lighting up the night sky with vibrant colours and captivating patterns. Whether it’s a wedding, a festival, or a public holiday, fireworks have become a symbol of joy and excitement.
But with so many different types of fireworks available, how do you know which to choose for your event? To help you choose the right type of fireworks for your celebration, in this article, we’re going to cover:
- The 3 main categories of fireworks
- The 6 most popular types of fireworks
- How to choose the right type of firework for your event
But before we cover the above in greater detail, let’s first take a look at what fireworks are.
What Are Fireworks?
Fireworks are explosive devices that create visual and auditory effects when ignited. Made up of a combination of chemicals, including oxidisers, fuels, and metal salts, fireworks produce bright colours, flashes, and loud noises. When ignited, the heat causes these chemicals to react, releasing energy in the form of light and sound.
Originally used in ancient China for ceremonial purposes, fireworks have since evolved into a popular form of entertainment worldwide. Today, they are used in displays for everything from New Year’s Eve celebrations to national holidays and weddings.
Main Categories of Fireworks
Fireworks can be classified into several categories based on how they function. The three main categories include aerial fireworks, ground fireworks, and display fireworks. Here’s a little bit more information about each category:
Aerial Fireworks
Aerial fireworks are designed to launch into the sky and explode at a high altitude. These fireworks create stunning effects, such as colourful bursts, stars, and cascading waterfalls. Aerial fireworks are typically used in larger displays and often include shells, rockets, and mines.
Ground Fireworks
Unlike aerial fireworks, ground fireworks stay on the ground and create visual and auditory effects that stay close to the ground. These fireworks can create sparks, fountains of light, or small explosions. Common types of ground fireworks include sparklers, fountains, and Roman candles.
Display Fireworks
Display fireworks are specially designed for use in professional pyrotechnic displays. These fireworks include a combination of aerial and ground effects, creating an impressive show for large crowds. Display fireworks include large shells, rockets, and multi-shot cakes, which are often fired in rapid succession to create a dynamic spectacle.
Popular Types of Fireworks
There are many different types of fireworks available, each offering a unique visual effect. Below are some of the most popular fireworks used in displays across the UK.
Roman Candles
Roman candles are long tubes that shoot out bursts of sparks and colours into the air. They are one of the oldest and most traditional types of fireworks and are often used in both small and large displays. Roman candles can also be used individually or as part of a larger display to add a little bit more variety and excitement to the overall fireworks display.
Sparklers
Sparklers are a fun and popular type of firework, especially for children. They are handheld fireworks that burn with a bright, sparkling light. While they don’t produce loud noises or large displays, sparklers create a beautiful, enchanting effect that is perfect for smaller gatherings or as part of a larger show.
Compounds
Compound fireworks are a revolutionary advancement in pyrotechnics that allows an entire display to ensue before your eyes with a single ignition. This works by having multiple cakes pre fused together and using a delayed fuse to ensure a long-lasting display.
After lighting the fuse on one of our compound firework cakes, there is a chain reaction of dazzling, enchanting fireworks that will make the crowd cheer over and over again.
Rockets
Rockets are perhaps the most dramatic type of firework. They are launched into the air and explode at high altitudes, producing large, colourful bursts and crackling effects. Rockets come in different sizes, with larger rockets producing bigger, more elaborate displays. They are typically used in professional firework shows and larger celebrations.
Mines
Mines are ground fireworks that shoot bursts of light and sparks into the air from a fixed position. They are often used in combination with other fireworks to create a sequence of effects. Mines produce a powerful, striking effect that makes them a favourite for large-scale displays.
Barrages
Barrages or cakes as they are commonly known are single ignition multi-shot fireworks, they give off a variety of effects producing beautiful, professional like displays. barrages can also come in a range of noise levels, sizes and duration. Perfect variety suitable for any type of gathering.
How to Choose the Right Type of Firework
When choosing fireworks for your event, several factors should be considered to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Consider the Occasion
The type of event you’re celebrating will influence the fireworks you choose. For a small gathering, sparklers or fountains might be ideal, while larger celebrations like New Year’s Eve or Bonfire Night may call for more dramatic aerial fireworks, such as rockets or compounds.
Consider the Size of the Display
The size of your display will determine the number and size of fireworks you need. Smaller displays are well-suited to barrages, Roman candles, and fountains, while larger events may require multiple display kits, rockets, and mines to create a grand effect.
Space and Safety Considerations
Always consider the available space for your display. Aerial fireworks require plenty of open space, while ground fireworks can be used in smaller areas. Make sure the venue complies with safety regulations, and always follow guidelines for safe fireworks handling.
Budget Considerations
Fireworks come in a wide range of prices, so it’s important to choose the ones that fit within your budget. While larger aerial fireworks and shells can be expensive, smaller fireworks like sparklers and fountains can provide an impressive effect without breaking the bank.
Note: At Anfield Fireworks, we also sell firework display packs and selection boxes. These not only offer a little bit of everything but also the most value for money.
Consider the Audience
Think about who will be watching your fireworks display. If you’re hosting a family event, sparklers and fountains are a great choice. For more dramatic events, rockets and shells can be used to captivate and thrill your guests.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right fireworks for your event can make all the difference in creating a memorable experience. From colourful sparklers to dramatic rockets, there are many types of fireworks in the UK that can suit your occasion.
So, if you’re looking to make your occasion one that you’ll remember for the rest of your life, browse through our website, buy fireworks online, and we will ship them right to your doorstep.
