A New Year’s and 4th of July tradition, a phenomenon in the sky, a bright display of color, fireworks have been a part of cultures worldwide for generations, but where did they come from? How did they become such an important holiday tradition in America?
Where Did Fireworks Come From?
During the second century B.C. in ancient Liuyang, China, many historians believe that the first form of primitive fireworks were developed. Working as natural “firecrackers,” these fireworks were made of bamboo stalks that would loudly explode thrown in a fire due to the overheating of the hollow air pockets in the bamboo.
The Chinese believed these natural firecrackers would ward off evil spirits. Later on, during the period 600-900 AD, legend has it that a Chinese alchemist mixed potassium nitrate, sulfur, and charcoal to produce a black, flaky powder, which would be known as the first “gunpowder.”
This powder was poured into hollowed-out bamboo sticks forming the first man-made fireworks. By the 13th and 15th century, fireworks made their way to Europe and were widely used for religious festivals and public entertainment.
The Italians were the first Europeans to manufacture fireworks. European rulers were especially fond of fireworks to make for an exciting experience during events at their castles. Then, early U.S. settlers brought their fireworks with them to the New World.
By the time the United States was formed, fireworks (famously beloved by John Adams) became a part of the very first Independence Day. To this day, fireworks are an American tradition that continues every 4th of July, but it’s not the only holiday where Americans celebrate with fireworks.
These sky-high displays are used year-round at festivals, special events, and sporting events such as the Olympics and the SuperBowl. Even Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World hosts a grand fireworks show every single night for their guests. Fireworks displays can be a great way to attract people to local events, as they’re an eye-catching, family-friendly experience.
Popular Types of Fireworks in Miami-Dade
One of the most common types of fireworks is firecrackers. With a huge variety of them to choose from, such as Black Cats, M-80, and Lady Fingers, firecrackers are usually smaller, but they are the original firework.
As you may already know, firecrackers are meant to explode with a loud bang, and they usually come in strings that number from a measly 12 to a gargantuan 10,000. Blowing up firecrackers can be a fun activity for the whole family to watch at your next holiday get-together, or they can be a part of a bigger show at the main event when you buy wholesale at Lady Fireworks & Co.
Smoke bombs are another entertaining attraction even though they don’t exactly explode like a firework. Some smoke bombs are best if used during the daytime because it can be hard to see smoke at night.
Generally, you can buy one of two types of smoke bombs: color smoke balls or cylindrical smoke grenades. The smoke balls come in various colors, and many people now use pink or blue smoke balls at their gender reveal parties. Not only can this be a fun and exciting way to break the news to your family and friends, but the colorful smoke comes out great in pictures.
You’ve probably seen your neighbor use these fireworks on your street during the Fourth of July, as they can be a loud and bright attraction. Fountain fireworks are usually cone-shaped devices that sit on the ground and shoot off a shower of colorful sparks.
While these fireworks are milder and explode for a relatively short time, they are still beautiful to watch at night. Your kids will be enthralled!
A firework you can hold right in the palm of your hand. Sparklers are a New Year’s Eve classic, and kids love to play with them. Sparklers are sticks that give off colored sparks when lit. You can wave them around and create a light show, and they’re great for a photo-op.
There are two types of sparklers: Ones made from metal and ones made of paper. The latter are often called Morning Glories, which are a bit safer because they don’t leave a red hot metal stick when they’re done burning.
At Lady Fireworks & Co., we love serving the community of Miami-Dade and providing the most high-quality fireworks at the best price. Visit our online shop and contact us with any questions!