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History of Fireworks and Fireworks Events
For those of you who would like to know more about the history of fireworks, we've included the following extracts for you - courtesy of Wikipedia - the online encyclopaedia.
As early as the Chinese Han Dynasty (206 BC–AD 220) the world's first firecracker (basic fireworks) were made by roasting bamboo to produce the loud sound (known as "bian pao") that was intended to frighten evil spirits. In the Northern and Southern Dynasties (AD 420–581) the firecrackers were used not only to dispel evil but also to pray for happiness and prosperity.
The discovery of gunpowder and the subsequent invention of true fireworks is owed to the Chinese. Taoist monks played with the basic components of gunpowder to create fireworks in their spare time. Eventually, the art and science of firework making developed into an independent profession of its own. In ancient China, pyrotechnicians (firework-masters) were well-respected for their knowledge and skill to mount dazzling displays of light and sound. Some scholars say fireworks were developed in the Sui and Tang Dynasties (581–907), but others argue there were no fireworks until the Northern Song Dynasty (10th century).
Amédée-François Frézier published a "Treatise on Fireworks" in 1706. In which he studied the recreational and ceremonial uses of fireworks, rather than their military uses. The book became a standard text for fireworks makers.
Musick for the Royal Fireworks was composed by George Frideric Handel in 1749 to celebrate the peace resulting from the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle, which had been negotiated the previous year.
Fireworks Events
Bonfire night in Great Britain
In 1605 Guy Fawkes and his fellow conspirators attempted to blow up the Parliament of the United Kingdom with 36 barrels of gunpowder in the cellars of Westminster Hall. On 5 November, Fawkes was arrested and Parliament was saved. That night is now celebrated as bonfire night by filling the sky with exploding fireworks, and by burning an effigy of Guy Fawkes on a bonfire.
Remember, remember the fifth of November.
Gunpowder, treason, and plot.
I see no reason why gunpowder treason
Should ever be forgot.
Independence Day in the USA
America's earliest settlers brought their enthusiasm for fireworks to the United States. Fireworks and black powder were used to celebrate important events long before the American Revolutionary War. The very first celebrations of Independence Day were in 1777, six years before Americans knew whether the new nation would survive the war; fireworks were a part of those festivities. In 1789, George Washington's inauguration was also accompanied by a fireworks display. This early fascination with their noise and color continues today.
Diwali ('Festival of Lights') in India
Diwali is the most popular festival of India, which broadly celebrates the triumph of good over evil primarily symbolized in the mythological epic of Ramayana in which the Hindu God Rama defeats his demonic adversary Ravana. Customary traditions include offering prayers to the Gods in the morning and exchanging sweets with friends and neighbours. During the night the houses are adorned with small lit oil lamps and colourful lights and then the entire family participates in the display of fireworks.
New Year's Eve (Hogmanay in Scotland)
Major cities around the world now host spectacular firework displays on New Year's eve.
Other Fireworks Facts
The largest manufacturer and exporter of fireworks in the world is China. China is estimated to have exported over 6 million cases or 120,000 tonnes of fireworks to the US in 2005.
In 2004, Disneyland in Anaheim, California, started using aerial fireworks launched with compressed air rather than gunpowder, the first time that such a launch system was used commercially. The display shell is detonated in the air using an electronic timer. The advantages of compressed air launch are a reduction in fumes, and much greater accuracy in height and timing.
Firework Competitions
L’International des Feux Loto-Québec in Montreal
Today, the world's most prominent industry competition for fireworks manufacturers is L’International des Feux Loto-Québec in Montreal.
Macau International Fireworks Display Contest
Held over 5 weeks during September with 2 displays on the same night weekly, with the final night held on China National Day on 1st October. The competition features 10 pyrotechnic companies from around the world.
Malta International Fireworks Festival
Held annually at the end of April in the Valletta Grand Harbour, is a fireworks competition open to all pyrotechnic manufacturers of the world. In 2003 the event began as just a festival to showcase Maltese talent, but in 2006 it was opened to manufacturers worldwide.
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Guy Fawkes attempted to blow-up parliament in 1605.
An etching of the 'Royal Fireworks' display on the Thames in 1749.
American Independence Day at the Washington Monument.
Traditional fireworks in a house in India at Diwali.
Sydney, Australia - one of the first cities to celebrate New Year.
Visitors to Disney can enjoy a spectacular fireworks display every night of the year.