How to Time Your Wedding Firework Display for Maximum Impact

A fireworks display is one of the most magical moments you can add to your wedding day. But timing it right is essential, especially for evening weddings in North Wales and Cheshire, where sunset times vary dramatically throughout the year.

Here’s how to make sure your fireworks deliver maximum wow-factor.

1. Time the Display for Just After Sunset

Fireworks always look best against a dark sky. A common mistake is firing too early, when it’s still too light.

Typical dusk times:
  • Summer: 9:30pm–10:30pm
  • Spring/Autumn: 7pm–8pm
  • Winter: 4pm–5pm
 


Your display should ideally start 20–40 minutes after sunset.

At Bright Sparks, we automatically check sunset times for every wedding in North Wales and Cheshire so your display is perfectly timed.

2. Fireworks After the First Dance

This is one of the most popular timings.

Why it works:
  • Guests are already gathered
  • Creates a natural transition into the evening party
  • Amazing moment for photos with the couple framed by fireworks


Imagine finishing your first dance, the doors opening, and your guests being led outside for a fireworks surprise.

3. Use Fireworks to Transition the Evening

If your day involves moving between spaces, for example, a ceremony barn to an evening tipi, fireworks can act as a natural transition point.

Perfect moments include:
  • After cutting the cake
  • Before the DJ starts the evening set
  • As a welcome to night-time guests
  • After the evening buffet opens


Fireworks keep the energy high and bring everyone together.

4. Coordinate with the Venue's Quiet Hours

Most wedding venues in North Wales and Cheshire have cut-off times between 10pm–11pm.

It’s important to schedule fireworks early enough to avoid clashing with:
  • Curfews
  • Neighbourhood noise rules
  • Livestock proximity


If timing is tight, low-noise fireworks are an ideal solution.

5. Think About Photography Timing

To guarantee the best photos:
  • Start the display when it’s fully dark
  • Inform the photographer
  • Use a short delay (30–60 seconds) before the first burst
  • Add a ‘couple’s moment’ at the start (spark fountain behind the couple)


This ensures your photographer captures you in front of the opening effects.

6. Serve Fireworks as a Surprise Moment

Some couples choose a ‘secret fireworks timeline — a surprise for guests, sometimes even the groom or bride!

To pull this off:
  • Tell the venue and photographer
  • Use a natural gathering moment
  • Keep guests near a door or patio area


When the first launch goes up, the excitement is incredible.

Final Thoughts

Timing is everything when planning wedding fireworks in North Wales and Cheshire. Whether it’s after your first dance, at dusk, or as a surprise finale, the right timing transforms your display into a truly unforgettable moment.



If you’d like help planning the perfect timeline, Bright Sparks can design a display tailored to your venue, time of year and wedding schedule.