Fireworks not only contribute to noise and air pollution but also pose significant risks to wildlife, pets, and people. The sudden, loud percussive explosions cause extreme stress and disorientation in many wild animals and pets. Fireworks can also be upsetting and frightening for people, especially those with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), sensory issues, or other medical conditions. With Independence Day right around the corner, it’s important for those of us who love a good fireworks display to be mindful of those who may not. Continue reading to discover seven bang-up alternatives to noisy fireworks.
Rotating Laser Gloves
For about 1/2 the price of a traditional haul of fireworks, you can own a pair of phenomenal laser gloves that will provide years of fun.
©Courtesy of ktvlights.com
Ktvlights is on a mission to make time special, and their product line is designed to do just that. KTVlights was established in 2019 by John and Igor, who shared a communal working space and a love for stage lighting. Stage lighting is where Ktvlights shines brightest, but the company, based in Shenzhen, China, offers a range of lighting products, including these absolutely amazing laser gloves. A built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery powers the gloves, and a 1.5-hour charge will keep the party going for 5 hours. The hundreds of five-star reviews cite the quality of the product and the company. Ktvlights custom-made a pair of gloves for a customer whose hands exceeded the bounds of the one-size-fits-all adjustable gloves. Ktvlights has many styles of laser gloves besides the rotating style, $199.90, with free shipping and a 30-day return policy.
Full Color Phantom Laser Light-A10
Don’t judge a book by its cover, or this unassuming projector (10″x 3.6″) by its compact size.
©Courtesy of Ktvlights.com
While their line of laser gloves is every kid’s (young and old) dream, Ktvlights’ laser projectors allow for non-stop fun. As alternatives to fireworks go, this one is pretty fabulous. Plug in the projector and aim it at your focal point for a long-lasting light show. The unit is equipped with six bee-eye lights, moving lights that are used primarily in the entertainment industry. The A-10 has hundreds of patterns from which to choose. Ktvlights markets this laser projector as a consumer model that will adequately light up a single room or a small stage. Ktvlights sells the Full Color Phantom Laser Light-A10 for $399.90.
Festive Fireworks
Display these virtual fireworks practically anywhere.
©Courtesy of atmosFX.com
There’s nothing to clean up with these virtual fireworks from AtmosFX. The company, headquartered in Seattle, Washington, specializes in creating digital decorations for holidays and parties. For nonstop action, loop the virtual fireworks display. Users can also create personalized shows. Verified customers praise the ease of operation and the clarity and authenticity of the fireworks, which can be viewed on a television, wall, window, or ceiling. AtmosFX virtual fireworks are compatible with any TV, monitor, or projector, although the company also offers a line of projectors. AtmosFX Festive Fireworks are available for $12 as a digital download.
Bottle Sparklers
Without forgoing the fiery light, sparklers offer an alternative to noisy fireworks.
©Courtesy of whlesalesparklers.com
Sparklers are an indispensable part of Independence Day celebrations, and these bottle sparklers are top of the line. Marketed as the perfect addition to wedding cakes and bottles of champagne, the sparklers are versatile. Independence Day will be rife with possibilities for enjoying these sparklers with a modern twist. Each sparkler burns for approximately 45 seconds. Wholesale Sparklers has various quantities from 6 sparklers ($2.50) to 960 sparklers ($499.99).
Silent Knight
Sky Bacon Fireworks are fireworks that sizzle.
©Courtesy of fireworkconnection.com
Lasting just over a minute and a half, Sky Bacon Fireworks’ Silent Knight is a thoughtful choice for those who simply must have fireworks to celebrate. Silver flowers with red and blue pearls fade to colorful red and green scattering pearls, gold glittering flowers, and gold fluttering flowers with blue droplets, erupt noiselessly from this fountain made by Sky Bacon Fireworks. Silent Knight is available at most fireworks retailers, including Firework Connection, for $12.99.
Black Cat® Quiet
The oldest registered consumer fireworks brand in the United States, Black Cat®, has been loudly popping for nearly 80 years. The company now has alternatives to noisy fireworks.
©Courtesy of blackcatfireworks.com
For many folks, Black Cat® firecrackers are a core childhood memory of Independence Day and New Year’s Eve celebrations, especially the unsupervised ones. “It’s a miracle someone didn’t lose an eye,” according to my mother. Or at least that’s what I think she said. It was difficult to hear her over the ringing in my ears. These days, Black Cat® is responding to the demand for less noisy fireworks. Marketed as the mayhem without the noise, the Black Cat® Quiet is a kinder, gentler way to indulge your fireworks jones.
Don’t be fooled by the lack of loud explosions; the Black Cat® Quiet supplies 75 seconds of colorful action. The fountain has three effects: Red flower to white chrysanthemum and purple spark, gold pine and purple spark to red spark, green spark and yellow chrysanthemum, and red titanium spring to red spark, green spark and white chrysanthemum. Grab the Black Cat® Quiet, $22.50, at various retailers and independently owned stands.
MMC L1 Light Show Drone
The only limits are money and imagination when it comes to drone light shows.
©Courtesy of mmcuav.com
From mini-models outfitted with cameras to full-scale military versions, drones are essentially flying computers that can be programmed to perform various functions. Micromulticopter Aviation, one of the leading manufacturers of drones (also known as UAVs – Unmanned Aerial Vehicles), programs their drones to create amazing aerial light shows that rival traditional noisy fireworks displays. Drones are quieter, less messy, and smoke-free.
Creating these drone light spectaculars requires thousands of drones, which can be pricey. Individual programmable light drones typically cost $2,000 or more. So, while these shows are best left to the professionals, you could pool resources with your neighbors and purchase a few drones. However, with 5,000 drones, the results are breathtaking. Check out the programming capabilities of the folks at Micromulticopter Aviation, where pricing for the MMC L1 Light Show Drone is available by request.
