This N.L. ice cream shop is having an explosive season, and it's all thanks to fireworks sales

For Bergs Famous Ice Cream in Manuels, the end of December is a magical time — a time when the shop transforms into Bergs Famous Fireworks. 

It's the biggest day of the year for the temporary firework store, managed by Ben Candow, who told Radio-Canada that this year the shop is offering its biggest selection of fireworks ever, with 150 different cakes. 

Cakes are boxes of different fuses that explode into a wide range of colours, shapes and lights.

With four years under his belt as a firework merchant, Candow has become something of an expert.

So, what makes a good firework?

"I really like when they're colourful and loud … taking over the sky," said Candow. 

The manager said the average price tag for a good light show is about $299, but Bergs carries cakes for as low as $79.

For those looking to impress — or compete with — their neighbours, Bergs brought in a $3,000 cake that can explode for as long as 15 minutes. 

"It's a long show, but you really want to have it," Candow said. 

It takes a lot of preparation to trade ice cream for fireworks, so the team starts to stock up on Halloween, once the ice cream shop is closed for the season. 

Safety tips 

Since opening on Dec. 27, Candow said there's been a steady stream of customers, but the bulk of them wait until they have the certainty of knowing the New Year's Eve weather. 

However, Candow said, "Newfoundland weather is always perfect for fireworks."

Since the climate is so damp, Candow said there's less of a risk for uncontrolled fires. 

When setting up fire works, the Bergs manager recommends securing boxes of fireworks in place to prevent them from falling over.

"Also, it's just important to stand back and enjoy the show," Candow said, adding that it's safest to keep about 10 metres away from the explosives.

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