If you want to add a bit of elegant drama to your next formal occasion, it would be tough to go wrong with sparklers and sky lanterns. Beloved by people of all ages, sparklers are handheld sticks that give off a beautiful shower of sparks. Sky lanterns are lesser known in the United States, but these stunning paper lanterns act as tiny hot air balloons. Here are some ideas.
Grand Entrance
If your guests will arrive around the same time, a sky lantern launch is a dramatic way to welcome them. Simply light the wax fuel cell or candle, and watch your lanterns gently rise to a height that could approach 1000 feet. They will float for about 5 to 10 minutes, and then slowly return to Earth.
Grand Exit
If your formal occasion calls for the guests of honor to make a grand exit, why not add to the celebration with sparklers? Everyone can form a double line outside the door, holding shining sparklers aloft as the guests of honor depart. What a way to show appreciation or acknowledgement!
Activity Change
If your event includes dinner followed by dancing, or a wedding ceremony followed by a reception, a sky lantern launch can be a fun way to transition between activities. Make an announcement about 5 minutes in advance so that everyone has the chance to gather outside.
Cake Cutting
Celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or wedding? Will a cake cutting be part of the festivities? Why not make your guests a part of the moment by having them light sparklers in tribute? It will make an excellent photo opportunity, and help your guests feel involved.
Safety Considerations
Fire is always a risk when dealing with open flames, so make safety a top priority. Set out a bucket of water, and ask guests to drop used sparklers in the bucket rather than in the trash or on a table. Check the weather before launching sky lanterns, and do not launch if the wind speed is higher than 2 on the Beaufort scale, or approximately 11 mph. Also check your state and local laws. Some places ban sparklers and/or sky lanterns, either permanently or during drought conditions. Always err on the side of caution and stay within the law.
Both sparklers and sky lanterns add elegant drama to any formal occasion. They also help guests to become involved, and can serve as icebreakers among groups that do not know each other well. Be sure to make clear announcements so that guests know what is expected of them, and make safety a top priority, and your party is likely to become the talk of the town!
At Dynamite Fireworks, we don’t only sell top-quality, name-brand fireworks. We also provide the information you need to know to use them responsibly, legally, and safely. If you have any questions or concerns, give us a call at (219) 937-4090. We look forward to becoming your one-stop shop for all your fireworks needs!