Ilotulitteen

Ilotulitteen is the Finnish term for a firework, a device designed to produce visual and audible effects for celebrations. Fireworks are typically launched into the sky or used on the ground and are common at national holidays, festivals, and sporting events.

Most fireworks consist of a shell containing oxidizers, fuels, binders, and color-producing metal salts. When ignited, the oxidizer releases gases that propel the shell and, upon rupture, create light, color, and sound. Different metal compounds yield various colors—for example, strontium for red, barium for green, copper for blue, and sodium for yellow. Modern displays often combine multiple effects and timing to form choreographed sequences.

Fireworks originated in China, with early recipes appearing in written sources dating to the 7th century, and spread to the Middle East and Europe over time. The development of modern aerial shells in the 19th and 20th centuries expanded the range of effects and increased the scale of public displays. Today, both consumer-grade devices and large professional fireworks displays are used worldwide.

Common types include aerial shells, fountains, wheels, roman candles, and smaller items like sparklers. Displays can involve dozens or hundreds of devices coordinated to deliver synchronized effects.

Safety and regulatory considerations are central to the use of ilotulitteen. They pose risks of burns, eye injuries, and property damage, and regulations—often requiring distances, licenses, or professional operators—vary by country and region. Environmental concerns include smoke, particulates, and chemical residues; some jurisdictions promote alternatives such as drone light shows or quieter displays.