Roman Candles
Roman Candles
Roman Candle Fireworks - Classic Multi-Shot Comets
Roman Candles are traditional tube-shaped fireworks that fire multiple coloured comets or stars from each tube. Unlike cakes (which typically fire one shot per tube), Roman Candles fire multiple shots from each tube, creating extended displays with beautiful comet trails.
Known for their lower noise levels and spectacular comet trails, Roman Candles are perfect for adding variety and traditional appeal to displays. They're brilliant for mixing with cakes and rockets to create more interesting, varied shows.
Why Choose Roman Candles?
- Traditional firework - Classic appeal with beautiful comet trails
- Lower noise - Generally quieter than cakes (though not always silent)
- Multiple shots per tube - Each tube fires 10-20+ shots for extended displays
- Budget-friendly - Great value from £3, perfect for building varied displays
- Candle batteries available - Multiple tubes for fuller effects
- Professional display techniques - Create V or W formations cheaply
Roman Candles vs. Cakes - What's the Difference?
The key difference is how the tubes fire:
Roman Candles: Each tube fires multiple shots (10-20+), creating extended displays with comet trails. Generally lower noise with traditional appeal.
Cakes/Barrages: Each tube typically fires one shot, but with many tubes firing in sequence or patterns. Can be louder with more varied effects.
When to choose Roman Candles: Perfect for adding traditional variety, creating atmosphere, lower-noise displays, and when you want beautiful comet trails. Brilliant for mixing with other firework types.
When to choose Cakes: Great for impact, varied effects (crackling, whistling, glitter), and when you want maximum variety from a single piece.
Single Roman Candles vs. Candle Batteries
| Single Roman Candles | Candle Batteries | |
|---|---|---|
| Tubes | Single tube | Multiple tubes (3-25+) |
| Shots | 10-20+ shots from one tube | Each tube fires 10-20+ shots |
| Display potential | Great for V/W formations with multiple candles | Fuller, more impressive single-piece display |
| Price range | £3-£8 | £15-£50+ |
| Best for | Budget displays, creative formations | Bigger impact from single ignition |
Popular Roman Candle Effects
- Coloured comets - Red, green, blue, purple, gold comets with beautiful trails
- Multi-colour - Candles that change colour with each shot
- Glitter trails - Shimmering comet trails
- Crackling comets - Comets that crackle as they rise
- Reports - Some Roman Candles include bangs at height (less common)
- Strobing - Pulsing, flashing comet effects
Professional Display Techniques - Create V & W Formations
One of the brilliant things about Roman Candles is you can create professional-looking displays relatively cheaply by arranging multiple candles:
V Formation: Place 2 Roman Candles angled outwards in a V shape. When fired simultaneously, the comets cross paths creating spectacular fan effects. Perfect for finales.
W Formation: Place 3 Roman Candles - outer two angled outwards, centre one vertical. Creates impressive wide coverage that looks far more expensive than it is.
Fan Display: Place 5+ Roman Candles in a semi-circle, all angled outwards. Creates a stunning wide fan of comets across the sky.
Tips for formations:
- Secure all candles firmly in ground or holders before lighting
- Light all candles in quick succession (use portfires, not matches)
- Ensure all candles are the same duration so effects stay synchronised
- Maintain proper safety distances from audience (8m for F2, 25m for F3)
Building Displays with Roman Candles
Roman Candles are brilliant for adding variety and traditional appeal to displays:
- Mix with cakes - Alternate between Roman Candles (lower noise, comet trails) and cakes (varied effects) for more interesting shows
- Between rockets - Use Roman Candles to fill gaps between rocket launches
- Budget displays - Build entire displays using just Roman Candles in formations (brilliant value)
- Lower-noise sections - Perfect for quieter moments in displays without going completely silent
- Traditional atmosphere - Roman Candles create classic firework atmosphere
- Extend display duration - Roman Candles fire for longer than equivalent-priced cakes
How to Use Roman Candles Safely
⚠️ CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING: Roman Candles must NEVER be held in the hand. Always place them on the ground in a secure holder or push them into soft ground.
- Stand upright - Push tube firmly into soft ground (at least 15cm deep) or use a proper holder/bucket of sand
- Ensure stability - Roman Candle must be vertical and completely secure (cannot tip over)
- Check classification - F2 requires 8-metre clearance, F3 requires 25-metre clearance
- For angled displays - Use proper angled holders, never just lean against objects
- Light at arm's length - Use a portfire or safety lighter, retreat immediately to safe distance
- Never look down the tube - Even before lighting - always treat as loaded
- Never return - If a Roman Candle stops firing, wait 20 minutes before approaching
- Keep water nearby - Bucket or hose for emergencies
How Long Do Roman Candles Last?
Most Roman candles last between 30 seconds and 2 minutes depending on the size and design. Larger candle batteries with multiple tubes will naturally last longer. Check individual product descriptions for specific durations.
Classification & Age Requirements
Roman Candles are classified as either Category F2 (garden fireworks) or F3 (display fireworks) depending on their power. Both classifications can be purchased by anyone aged 18 or over - no special qualifications required.
F2 Roman Candles: 8-metre minimum safety distance
F3 Roman Candles: 25-metre minimum safety distance
Always check the label on each Roman Candle for its exact classification and follow the safety distance shown.
Great Value for Varied Displays
Roman Candles offer excellent value for creating varied, interesting displays. Instead of buying all cakes (which can sound similar), mix in Roman Candles for:
- Lower-noise variety
- Traditional comet trail appeal
- Longer duration per pound spent
- Professional formations (V/W shapes) at budget prices
- More interesting, varied shows
Delivery & Availability
We deliver Roman Candles across the UK using our own specialist ADR-trained drivers. Orders over £300 qualify for free delivery. Roman Candles are available year-round with our biggest selection from September onwards.
Browse our full range of Roman Candles above. Need help choosing? Call us on 01709 769184 or email help@galacticfireworks.co.uk - we're always happy to help!