What is Fire Eating Sticks?

Definition:

Fire Eating Sticks（torches） are small metal rods with a wicked heads that are soaked in liquid fuel and lit on fire as a performance art form. Fire eating is the act of putting a flaming object into the mouth and extinguishing it. Primarily used by fire performers, and sideshow or circus entertainers.

History:

Fire eating is a common part of Hindu, Sadhu and Fakir performances that demonstrate spiritual achievements. In the late 1880s, fire eating became part of standard vaudeville performances and was a common part of Hindu, Sadhu and Fakir performances to demonstrate spiritual achievements. It became part of the standard vaudeville act in the late 1880s and is often seen as one of the introductory skills for vaudeville performers.

The famous 18th-century fire-eater was Robert Powell, who is said to have swallowed not only fire but also red-hot coal, melted sealing wax and even sulfur. He performed regularly in front of British and other European royalty and nobility for nearly 60 years. In 1751, he was awarded a bag of gold and a large silver medal

The first, though not the first, to attract the attention of high society was an Englishman named Richardson, who first performed in France in 1667. His methods were later made public by his servants. It’s often seen as one of the introductory skills for a juggler.

 

How does fire work?

Fire eating relies on the rapid extinguishing of fire in the mouth or on a surface in contact, and the short-term cooling effect of evaporation of surface water on the fire source (usually a small amount of alcohol mixed with water) or saliva in the mouth. This will light a damp handkerchief or bill without burning. Closing your mouth, or putting your hand over your mouth, will cut off the oxygen to the fire. Blowing into it can remove the very thin reaction area on the fuel source, thereby extinguishing the flame in some cases, when the blown air is faster than the fire front and the flame is small enough to be completely extinguished. Fire eating relies on the rapid extinguishing of fire in the mouth or on a surface in contact, and the short-term cooling effect of evaporation of surface water on the fire source (usually a small amount of alcohol mixed with water) or saliva in the mouth.

The flame itself is not a cold flame, and the performer does not use any materials other than fuel. When using this method, avoid using certain materials, such as those that easily ignite, melt, or store heat before releasing. These include paraffin candles, plastic and thick multi-threaded rope. The performers do not use any materials other than fuel. When using this method, avoid using certain materials, such as those that easily ignite, melt, or store heat before releasing. These include paraffin candles, plastic and thick multi-threaded rope.

Function:

Fire eating is a spectacle that must be seen to be believed! Like a clown’s nose and steel wire, it is as much a part of the circus’s daily routine. This is a great way to wow your audience and really improve your acrobatic and juggling skills. We stock a wide range of fire eating and breathing products to meet your needs. All are handcrafted from the finest materials to ensure quality, strength and long life. Contact us to get fire food equipment and put on a great show for your audience!