The “Sky Ladder” by Chinese artist Cai Guoqiang is certainly is one of the most unique and spectacular fireworks displays of all time – not just because of its grandiose appearance but because of the magnificent symbolism it represents and the fact that it amazed people how this climbing stairway of fireworks was achieved in the first place!
At the start of the video clip, viewers get to see the fireworks magically creating a ladder of fire that appears to climb up to the heavens. It is truly amazing how this was achieved, creating the effect that a ladder is quickly being created for someone to step up to the heavens above.
This ladder is quite symbolic in that it was launched in honor of the artist’s grandmother who was celebrating her 100th birthday. Yes, we shall all die eventually – and the ladder appears to be Guoqiang’s touching way of sending her off to the heavens. Of course, it does not mean he wishes her dead but that he wants her to go to heaven (not to other places) someday.
Now, you might be wondering just how Guoqiang was able to create this awesome ladder made of fireworks. Well, he created a 500-m long ladder made of wires incorporated with gunpowder and fireworks. He then attached one end to a giant weather balloon which was launched to the sky. To achieve the best effect, of course, this balloon was not included in the video.
Watch this footage and be amazed at this fantastic display:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCW1ObmcLWE
Fireworks
Fireworks are explosive pyrotechnic devices that often create beautiful displays to amaze viewers during special occasions and for various purposes, including weddings, Independence Day, New Year’s Eve, festivals, and many others.
A list by Guinness World Records as of November 2014:
Largest firework display of all time: On November 29, 2014, a total of 540,382 individual firework effects were lighted in a 90-minute show held to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Norwegian constitution.
Largest firework rocket: On October 13, 2010, the Associação Nacional de Empresas de Produtos Explosivos (Portugal) launched the largest firework rocket weighing 13.40 kg (29.5 lb) during the 12th International Symposium on Fireworks in Oporto and Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal.
Most firework rockets launched in 30 seconds: On May 8, 2010, a total of 125,801 firework rockets were launched in Cebu, Philippines during an event organized by Pyroworks International Inc. (Philippines).
Longest firework waterfall: On August 23, 2008, the “Niagara Falls” measuring 3,517.23 m (11,539 ft 6 in) was launched at the Ariake Seas Fireworks Festival, Fukuoka, Japan.
Largest Catherine wheel: On June 18, 2011, a Catherine Wheel measuring 32.044 m (105 ft 1.6 in) was fired by the Lily Fireworks Factory inMqabba, Malta.