Fireworks are thrilling to watch — but what goes on behind the scenes is just as fascinating. From the science of explosions to the artistry of design, professional displays are full of complexity, innovation, and passion. Here are ten surprising facts about the world of professional fireworks that might just change how you see your next display.
1. Every Display Starts with a Risk Assessment
Before a single shell is loaded, a professional team will have completed site-specific risk assessments, created safety plans, and carried out dynamic on-the-day evaluations. Safety is the first priority — always.
2. Not All Fireworks Are Created Equal
Professional-grade fireworks are significantly more powerful and sophisticated than consumer fireworks. They’re built for scale, precision, and consistency — and many are custom-made to suit specific designs or venues.
3. Show Design is a Blend of Art and Engineering
A great display isn’t just a series of explosions. Designers use CAD-style software to create digital simulations, carefully plotting each product’s position, timing, height, and effect to tell a visual story.
4. Pyromusical Shows Are Like Composing a Symphony
Synchronising fireworks to music is one of the most advanced forms of display design. Each beat and melody is matched to the launch and burst of specific fireworks, sometimes down to hundredths of a second. At Sonning Fireworks, we pioneered the term Pyrotheatre over 20 years ago to describe our signature storytelling style of musical displays.
5. Explosive Weight Matters
Professional shows are planned with exact explosive weights, which are calculated, logged, and cross-checked. These figures ensure compliance with licenses and insurance, and help control the intensity and safety of the show.
6. Timing is Everything
High-end displays are fired using digital systems accurate to the millisecond. This precision allows designers to create intricate patterns, chase sequences, and dramatic moments — often triggered remotely and wirelessly.
7. Where Do Fireworks Come From?
Most professional fireworks are manufactured in China, where centuries of tradition meet modern mass production. However, for larger-scale or high-end displays, you’ll often see premium products sourced from Italy and Spain — known for their rich colours, dramatic effects, and signature styles..
8. Weather Can Make or Break a Show
Rain and snow are rarely showstoppers, and even strong winds can be managed — but wind blowing directly toward the audience can create safety issues. If there’s no alternative firing location, the display may need to be adjusted or postponed. Professional crews monitor weather conditions continuously and make expert decisions on the day to keep everyone safe.
9. Storage and Transport Are Heavily Regulated
All professional fireworks are stored under license and transported according to strict ADR regulations. Explosives are segregated, documented, and handled with great care.
10. No Two Shows Are Ever the Same
Each display is bespoke. The layout, product selection, music, and firing design are tailored to the event, audience, and location. Even repeat clients get fresh, one-of-a-kind experiences every time.
Final Thoughts
From meticulous planning and regulation to creativity and passion, professional fireworks displays are so much more than what meets the eye. At Sonning Fireworks, we take pride in turning vision into reality — whether it’s a heartfelt wedding finale or a showstopping competition performance.
Curious about what goes into your perfect display? Get in touch — we love talking fireworks.