End Your Night With a Bang When You Have Wedding Fireworks

Nothing beats that feeling of watching dazzling lights in the sky, whether it's the 4th of July or New Year's. So why not have wedding fireworks to bring that excitement to your event? This is one of those wedding send-off ideas that your friends and family are sure to remember, with gorgeous hues filling the starry sky at the end of a perfect party. Fireworks for weddings always bring out the "oohs" and "aahs," no matter how old you are. And we've covered everything you need to know about incorporating a wedding firework display into your reception for an unforgettable moment that provides jaw-dropping views and picture-perfect photos.

In this article: Can You Have Fireworks at a Wedding? | Wedding Firework Cost | How to Plan a Wedding Fireworks Display | Firework Vendors to Know | Wedding Fireworks Alternatives

Can You Have Fireworks at a Wedding?

For the most part, yes, you can have fireworks at weddings. This is one of the wedding reception activities that is sure to wow your guests, and it makes for unbelievable memories and photos. However, there are some legal and technical restrictions you might not be aware of, and the cost can also be more than you're expecting. Let's find out more about the logistics of wedding fireworks so you can better plan for this exciting event.

How Much Do Wedding Fireworks Cost?

As for the price tag associated with wedding fireworks, we gathered expert advice to help you with a ballpark figure. According to destination wedding planner Jamie Chang of Mango Muse Events, based in Los Altos, California, they are usually charged by the minute. While exact pricing can vary depending on the venue and location, the pro tells The Knot that "the average range is about $1,000 to $2,000 per minute." We also spoke with Rayn Galloway of Mark's Pops, a fireworks company based out of Granville, Tennessee, about how much a wedding fireworks display could cost. Here are some starting figures to give you an idea:

FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT

• Two-minute fireworks show: From $2,000
• Five-minute fireworks show: From $3,500
• 10-minute fireworks show: From $4,500
• 15-minute fireworks show: From $15,000
• 20-minute fireworks show: From $20,000
• 30-minute fireworks show: From $30,000

Now, how much do custom fireworks cost? That will likely be more expensive, depending on whether you want certain colors, designs or other elements, so be sure to add this custom figure to your wedding budget breakdown. Russ Powell of Powell Weddings and Events in Salt Lake City, Utah, also notes how certain additional fireworks displays can contribute to the cost, saying, "Indoor sparklers will cost you $300–$500 as an add-on." Tallying all of your expenses with The Knot Budget Advisor allows you to better customize your budget and prepare for this fabulous display.

How to Plan a Wedding Fireworks Display

Incorporating fireworks for wedding receptions is one of the small wedding details that makes a big impact. Go out with a bang on your event by taking these tips into account.

Weather and Seasonality

Both rain and drought can impact your fireworks display on your wedding night, so be sure to plan accordingly. "Planning is so important when incorporating fireworks—you have to coordinate around weather, winds, licensing and timing, to name just a few things. Have plans A, B and C in place as the elements can change quickly, and keep in mind that if there is a burn ban, you will have to pull the plug or pivot quickly," says Nora Sheils of Bridal Bliss Event Planning in Portland, Oregon.

One possible option if you want an indoor alternative is cold sparklers. Powell says, "Cold sparks are safe for indoor use around most objects, including flowers." For anything beyond that, he adds, "When it comes to anything bigger than handheld sparklers outside, you want to contact a reputable firework company and check with both the venue and fire marshal to ensure availability and safe usage."

Legality

Fireworks require the right vendors and venue, so doing your homework ahead of time is key. Sheils says, "My suggestion here is to work with a qualified and licensed pyrotechnic company. This is not an area you should DIY... Your pyrotechnic team will evaluate the area, pull the required permits, and make a plan with your wedding coordinator." Powell adds about the use of indoor options, "Even though they are marketed as 'cold' sparks, the fire marshal still considers them fireworks. Whoever is providing them should have the proper training and insurance."

Wedding Timeline

Typically, fireworks are best viewed at nighttime, where their light can truly sparkle. Work with your vendors to ensure guests are aware of this after-party event, so no one misses out. If you're unable to secure a great viewing area at night or noise ordinances prevent you from this display, consider some daytime options like cold sparks or smoke fireworks, or quieter nighttime displays like a drone show.

Guests With Noise and Light Sensitivities

Sometimes, guests might find fireworks overwhelming, whether that's the sounds or flashing lights. Notifying your guests ahead of time will allow them to prepare accordingly, and maybe you can even provide headphones or special glasses to loved ones who still want to enjoy the display. When using anything indoors, Powell suggests, "We also recommend letting your guests know you will be using [cold sparks] and showing them where they are stationed to avoid any person or child being too close to them while in use and getting debris in their eyes."

Find a Wedding Venue That Allows Fireworks

Certain cities or states may have restrictions on fireworks throughout the year, so before committing to this, find a venue that offers the right spot for fireworks views and permits. You can search The Knot Vendor Marketplace for places that allow fireworks on-site. Even better, if you can find a wedding venue with fireworks options so you know they're allowed, you'll be in the clear. Looking through venues' photos can help give you an idea of whether they've allowed these displays in the past. You'll also want to check for any sound restrictions since some venues have rules regarding noise after a certain time (and because fireworks are usually a nightly activity, you'll want to begin them before any ordinances take effect).

Best Songs for Wedding Fireworks Display

For every part of your day, music plays an important soundtrack. From wedding exit songs to the right tune for your wedding firework display, make the end of the night really pop (pun intended). Here are some of the best songs for fireworks wedding receptions:

• "Firework," Katy Perry
• "Sparks Fly," Taylor Swift
• "Shining Star," Earth, Wind and Fire
• "A Sky Full of Stars," Coldplay
• "Burn," Ellie Goulding
• "XO," Beyoncé
• "Counting Stars," OneRepublic
• "Star Wars (Main Theme)," John Williams
• "Higher Love," Kygo and Whitney Houston
• "Moonlight," Ariana Grande
• "You've Got the Love," Florence + the Machine
• "(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher," Jackie Wilson
• "Real Love Baby," Father John Misty
• "For Once in My Life," Stevie Wonder
• "Sapphire," Ed Sheeran

Wedding Fireworks Vendors to Know

To hire fireworks for wedding displays, you'll need to hone in on the right local vendors for your needs. Do you want a nighttime display to light up your venue's outdoor space, or are you thinking of something a little more modern with cold sparks and smoke fireworks? Here are some fireworks vendors around the country to help you figure out the services for your wedding day.

Fireworks & Stage FX America and Lakeside, California

Photo: Fireworks & Stage FX America

Fireworks & Stage FX America in California has more than just fireworks for weddings. This vendor offers sparks, colored smoke, confetti, cryo and flames for their couples, controlled by expert pyrotechnicians for a safe and unforgettable display. With over 30 years of experience, this Cali vendor services the entire Golden State and requires a month's notice for permitting at any wedding.

Pyrotex in Leonard, Texas

Photo: Pyrotex

Not too far outside of Plano, you can find Pyrotex, Texas's oldest professional fireworks company. This vendor services rehearsals, weddings and other parties throughout Texas and Oklahoma, using computerized tech that allows your fireworks show to go off without a hitch. Local and state fire marshals alike have certified this brand, making sure your reception is wow-worthy while being safe.

Fireworks Displays Unlimited and Firepower Displays Unlimited in Miami, Florida

Photo: Fireworks Displays Unlimited and Firepower Displays Unlimited

Fireworks Displays Unlimited in South Florida is the go-to for a fireworks display for weddings. This woman-owned business is great for everything from rehearsal dinners to after-parties, and past couples rave about their professionalism, detailed displays and jaw-dropping fireworks. Beyond traditional fireworks, they also offer colorful smoke fireworks, perfect as daytime fireworks for weddings.

Rythm EFX in Denver, Colorado

Photo: Rythm EFX

If you're looking for cold sparklers for wedding ceremonies or receptions, then try Rythm EFX in Colorado. This lighting and decor company is a must for the feel of fireworks in any indoor setting, thanks to their cold sparks. This Black-owned, woman-owned business can create a show-stopping reception area with lighting to match your indoor fireworks, from lanterns to string lights.

Acme Fireworks in Acme, Pennsylvania

Photo: Acme Fireworks

Serving areas throughout Pennsylvania, Maryland and West Virginia, Acme Fireworks has several wedding packages for one-of-a-kind fireworks to end your best night ever. They have over a decade of experience in providing couples with displays to light the night sky.

Mark's Pops Fireworks in Granville, Tennessee

Photo: Mark's Pops Fireworks

Mark's Pops Fireworks in Tennessee makes it easy to add a fireworks show for weddings, thanks to their three decades in the business. This vendor provides fairy-tale displays with safety at the forefront, handling all the licensing and permits for any Tennessee wedding where fireworks are allowed. They also work with your photographer to ensure the nighttime display is captured perfectly.

Digital Lightning Special Event Lighting and Fireworks in Gaithersburg, Maryland

Photo: Digital Lightning Special Event Lighting and Fireworks

Light up your party with Digital Lightning in Gaithersburg, a business with much more than just wedding fireworks displays around the greater DC area. They offer decorative lighting, dance floor lighting, decor, indoor pyrotechnics and special effects to take your day to the next level. End your night with fireworks, confetti and all the bells and whistles.

Deep South Fireworks in Hawkinsville, Georgia

Photo: Deep South Fireworks

Enjoy some of that southern hospitality with Deep South Fireworks, a vendor willing to travel all across the lower States for beautiful fireworks. This veteran-owned brand was built from a passion for pyrotechnics, and their packages for your wedding day can also include 20-inch and 36-inch sparklers.

July 4 Ever Fireworks in Walden, New York

July 4 Ever Fireworks has been around for almost a century, and it shows with their high-quality fireworks and expertise. Ready to travel throughout New York and New Jersey, this vendor will bring your unique vision to life through dazzling fireworks and other lighting details.

Copper State Production in Gilbert, Arizona

Photo: Copper State Production

For more than cold sparklers wedding displays, Copper State Production in Arizona has a wide range of options: lighting, confetti cannons, projectors and more. This is a wonderful choice for indoor fireworks at your wedding, with cold sparks offering that fireworks feel in a safer form.

Wedding Fireworks Alternatives

There may be different reasons you don't want to include fireworks at your wedding, whether that's the loud sound or not having the permits. So, what is an alternative to fireworks at a wedding? Thankfully, technology has made it even easier to have that breathtaking display without the need for good old-fashioned fireworks.

Indoor Cold Sparklers

If you want indoor fireworks for a wedding, cold sparks (or sparklers) make a fun alternative. There are some additional considerations for cold sparklers for wedding rentals, though. Powell says, "There are both indoor and outdoor powders. Generally, you can choose how high the fountain goes—about 6–8 feet. The higher fountain option… can leave a dark residue on the surface, though it is easily cleaned off." Check with your venue ahead of time to see if this alternative is allowed.

He adds, "The powder is made of lithium, which can leave a gritty sand-like residue around the sparkler unit that could cause someone to slip, especially if they are in high heels. To avoid this, either move the cold sparks away from the crowd or have a broom handy directly following their use."

Wedding Drone Show

Even big names like Disney and the NFL have used drones as a fireworks alternative, and it's no wonder. These virtually soundless displays offer customizable shows with your favorite characters, phrases and more in an array of beautiful, shifting colors. The drone show cost might be a bit pricier than typical fireworks, however, so speaking with wedding vendors who have experience with drones will give you an idea of what fits into your budget.

Confetti Cannons

A confetti cannon is a classic way to end a big event, from concerts to movie premieres. So give your wedding day that extra oomph with a surprise burst of confetti. You can choose different colors and shapes to match your wedding theme, or how about metallic and shimmery options in the mix? This is a simple but effective way to bring your party to a close with mementos your friends and family will love.