When fireworks tell stories: festivals, traditions and Diwali

Anyone who thinks fireworks are only available on New Year's Eve or August 1st has probably never visited our store in the middle of the year. People are constantly coming by, looking for a little bit of joy, light, and color. Often, it's children, their eyes shining, choosing sparklers or party poppers. Others want to conjure up a few sparks in the air for birthdays, garden parties, or photo shoots.

Quieter items like children's fireworks, volcanoes, smoke, and Bengal lights are particularly popular. Smoke and Bengal flares are particularly popular with artists, whether for photos, videos, or creative projects. These quiet effects create atmosphere without being loud.

It's fascinating to see how diverse the reasons are for people buying fireworks throughout the year. Some simply celebrate life. Others are looking for a special touch for their event. Now in autumn, we sense a special atmosphere in the store every year. Many come to celebrate a festival that has significance far beyond Switzerland: Diwali, the Festival of Lights.

The festival of lights Diwali

Diwali is one of the oldest and most important festivals in South Asia. Its roots go back a long way. It has been celebrated in many regions for over two millennia. The essence is similar everywhere: light represents hope, knowledge, and new beginnings.

In Hindu tradition, Diwali commemorates the return of Prince Rama to his homeland of Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. To welcome Rama, people placed small oil lamps in front of their houses. The rows of lights illuminated the night. This evolved into the festival of lights, which is now firmly established in many cultures.

Diwali follows the lunar calendar and, depending on the year, falls between mid-October and mid-November. It is celebrated in many countries, including India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Singapore. In many cities, magnificent fireworks displays are part of the festivities, often as public events with lots of light and color.

Here in Switzerland, the festival is celebrated in a rather quiet manner. Many families with roots in India or neighboring countries visit us during these days. They deliberately choose quiet effects and respect Swiss fireworks laws throughout the year. Volcanoes, Bengal flares, and smoke in warm colors are popular. This way, the fireworks tradition lives on. The focus is on light. Respect for the surroundings is maintained.

A piece of home far away

What touches us every year is the significance such festivals have for many people here. A spark of light can be a bridge between two worlds. A volcano in the garden. A small flame on the balcony. For a moment, you feel at home again.

Fireworks aren't just noise and color. They're memories, emotions, and symbols. Whether for Diwali, New Year's Eve, or simply to celebrate the moment, in the end it's always about the same thing: light. community. The need to share something beautiful. Regardless of culture or origin.