How Big Do Fireworks Actually Get?

🎇 How Big Do Fireworks Actually Get?
A Look at the Size, Height & Power Behind the Boom
Fireworks light up the sky with stunning colors, loud booms, and brilliant effects—but have you ever wondered just how big they really get? Whether you're holding a sparkler or watching a city-sized finale show, size matters when it comes to fireworks.
At Elevated Fireworks™, we love to break things down for pyro fans of all levels. Let’s dive into the size, height, and impact of fireworks—from novelties to aerial giants.
🧨 1. Small Fireworks – Big Fun on the Ground
These are your fountains, smoke balls, sparklers, and snaps.
- Height: 0–6 feet
- Effect Size: Small area (3–6 feet wide)
- Good For: Kids (with supervision), small yards, or daytime use
- Examples: Morning Glory Sparklers, Mini Fountains, Crackling Balls
🔥 Don’t be fooled—these may be small, but they still deliver big smiles.
🚀 2. Consumer Aerial Shells – Backyard Show Favorites
These are typically sold as reloadable shells or preloaded “cake” fireworks.
- Height: 100–200 feet
- Burst Diameter: 50–150 feet
- Tube Size: 1.75"–2" standard
- Good For: Backyards, events, 4th of July finales
- Examples: Super Storm Shells, Zipper Cakes, 500-gram Finales
🧨 The “wow” you hear from the crowd? This is where it starts.
🌠 3. Professional Display Shells – Stadium-Scale Firepower
Used by licensed pyro technicians for stadiums, festivals, and city shows.
- Height: 200–1,000+ feet
- Burst Diameter: 200–1,000 feet or more
- Shell Size: 3" to 12" (or bigger!)
- Good For: Professional displays, national holidays, large-scale events
- Examples: 6” Willow Shells, 10” Chrysanthemums, 12” Multi-Breaks
⚠️ These are regulated, require permits, and must be handled by pros.
🎆 Firework Size = Show Impact
The larger the shell, the higher and wider it explodes. But bigger doesn’t always mean better—placement, pacing, and variety make or break a good show.
At Elevated Fireworks™, we help you scale the show to your space, audience, and budget—whether that’s a backyard party or a field show with reload racks and finale cakes.
🔥 Quick Comparison Chart
Firework Type | Height | Burst Size | Skill Level |
---|---|---|---|
Sparklers & Fountains | 0–6 ft | 3–6 ft | Beginner |
Aerial Shells | 100–200 ft | 50–150 ft | Intermediate |
Pro Display Shells | 200–1000+ ft | 200–1000+ ft | Professional Only |
Ready to Build Your Show?
Whether you're going small or shooting for the sky, Elevated Fireworks™ has the gear, guidance, and gear you need. Ask our staff about the best picks for your space, or browse online for bundles that pack a punch—no license required!
Elevated Fireworks™ — From the Ground Up to the Sky Above.
Light smarter. Boom bigger.