Firework displays are a staple of celebrations, from Bonfire Night to New Year’s Eve, but their impact goes beyond dazzling visuals. According to industry experts and psychologists, the spectacle of fireworks can spark a surge of feel-good chemicals in the brain, fostering happiness and connection
Firework displays are a staple of celebrations, from Bonfire Night to New Year’s Eve, but their impact goes beyond dazzling visuals. According to industry experts and psychologists, the spectacle of fireworks can spark a surge of feel-good chemicals in the brain, fostering happiness and connection.
Big Shotter Fireworks, a leading UK fireworks retailer, highlights the science behind the sparkle. “It’s not just the colours or the noise,” a spokesperson from Big Shotter Fireworks explains. “It’s how the whole experience pulls you into the moment. The excitement, the anticipation, the surprise. It’s a perfect storm for joy.”
The science behind the sparkle
To explore this phenomenon, Big Shotter Fireworks consulted Dr Helen Arlow, a psychologist with over 15 years of experience in mood disorders and emotional wellbeing. “Fireworks can trigger a burst of happiness hormones, especially dopamine,” Dr Arlow says. “Dopamine is what your brain releases when you experience pleasure or reward. It’s the same chemical that lights up when you hear your favourite song, eat chocolate, or get a compliment.”
Dr Arlow explains that fireworks create a unique sensory experience, combining vibrant lights, booming sounds, and a sense of shared excitement. This combination stimulates the brain in a way that feels thrilling yet safe. “That sensory overload, when paired with emotional connection, can instantly shift people out of low moods,” she adds. The release of oxytocin, a hormone linked to bonding, further enhances feelings of closeness when watching with loved ones.
Creating lasting memories
For many, fireworks are more than a fleeting spectacle; they mark life’s most cherished moments. Lisa Harper, 31, from Kent, is one such person. She proposed to her partner, Sam, during a firework display in 2024. “I wanted the moment to be unforgettable,” she recalls. “And it really was. We still get goosebumps when we talk about it.” Stories like Lisa’s illustrate how fireworks amplify emotional experiences, making them unforgettable.
3 Tips to enhance the mood-boosting effects of a display
- Choose the right moment. Attend when you’re feeling calm and receptive. If stressed, take a few deep breaths to centre yourself.
- Share the experience. Watching with friends, family, or a partner amplifies joy, as studies show shared excitement boosts happiness.
- Stay present. Resist the urge to record everything. Focusing on the sights and sounds without a phone enhances the brain’s emotional response.
A note of caution
While fireworks can be uplifting, they may overwhelm those with sensory sensitivities or anxiety. Dr. Arlow advises taking precautions. “Being in control of your space makes a difference,” she says. “Even sitting in your car nearby can give you the beauty of the lights without the overwhelming sound.” Noise-cancelling headphones or watching from a distance can also help.
Fireworks as therapy
The spokesperson from Big Shotter Fireworks reflects on the deeper impact of their work. “We’ve always known that fireworks bring joy, but it’s fascinating to learn that there’s real science behind it,” they say. “It’s not just tradition or nostalgia. Your brain is actually reacting to the excitement. That’s why we work hard to create safe, spectacular shows that lift people’s moods and create positive memories. When done right, fireworks aren’t just a celebration. They’re therapy in the sky.”