How Big Do Fireworks Actually Get?


2 min read

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.


Leave a comment