The Best Way to Light Sparklers at a Wedding ImageMany people who use sparklers (particularly gold sparklers) find them much more difficult to light versus a traditional fused consumer firework. Using matches to light a sparkler or attempting to light one in windy conditions can prove to be a futile prospect and also be incredibly frustrating. However, some newer versions of wedding sparklers feature a match head style tip, allowing you to light the sparkler by striking it on the box in the same way you strike a match. This is the best way to light sparklers at a wedding, but often times we are dealing with something totally different.

Unfortunately, most of us find ourselves with the traditional style of sparklers that require the tedious job of open flame lighting. It can be even more difficult if you choose poorly made sparklers purchased at a discount. To make the job easier, the best way to light sparklers at a wedding involves following the suggestions below. Also, remember to closely observe children and supervise them the entire time they use combustible items such as sparklers.

Tips for Getting Them Going

  1. Choose a location that is sheltered from the wind to light your sparklers.
  2. Only light one wedding sparkler at a time. Lit sparklers can be unpredictable with their spark discharge, so lighting multiple sparklers at once can be very dangerous.
  3. Do not use matches to ignite a sparkler; including paper or wooden stick matches. A sparkler usually take a few seconds to light. Often times, matches burn down too quickly and burn your fingers before lighting the sparkler. Also, even if you manage to light the sparkler, you would have two burning items in your hands, one of which needs to be discarded quickly. This can lead to a potentially dangerous situation, and can be avoided by simply eliminating matches from the equation. A simpler approach is to just use regular butane lighters for your sparklers.
  4. Butane lighters, “BBQ” lighters, and propane torches can be used.  Lighters that keep the flame away from the hand holding the lighter are among the safest options. Electric ignition type propane torches, if available, are the quickest and best way to light sparklers at a wedding if used in an open area.
  5. One of the most popular methods to light multiple sparklers is to light one wedding sparkler, then use it to light the rest of the wedding sparklers one at a time. You can designate 1 person as the “lighter”, and have the rest of the people line up to take turns. When you light a sparkler with another sparkler, your hands are kept at a safe distance. Best of all, you can enjoy the show will getting things ramped up.
  6. Always keep the sparkler horizontal or with the tip angled down slightly. This will help light the wedding sparkler faster. That’s because the flame will want to naturally move vertical and ignite the sparkler’s pyrotechnic compound. Going “with the grain” is always best way to light sparklers at a wedding.
  7. Always light your sparkler at the tip. Keep the open flame the furthest away from the bare wire handle as possible.

Key Takeaways About How to Light a Sparkler

By following these simple tips, finding the best way to light sparklers at a wedding is not much of a mystery. Also, using a quality version that is double-dipped can be of great benefit. Overall, the fastest and most efficient ways to light your wedding sparklers are butane lighters and propane torches. Also, you should avoid using wooden stick matches at all costs.