Christmas Crackers and Candles: Your Table Decor Questions Answered

Quick answer

Choose crackers that match your table's colour scheme and candle style, then light candles with extra-long matches so you can reach safely without tipping a jar. For a coordinated look, pick a candle colour that echoes your crackers and use number candles for milestone ages. Always keep lit candles away from paper hats and cracker contents, and never leave them burning unattended.

What's actually inside a Christmas cracker?

A traditional Christmas cracker contains a paper hat, a small joke or motto, and a tiny gift or toy. The hat is usually tissue paper and folds flat, while the gift varies widely—from a plastic puzzle to a mini wooden ornament. If you're buying crackers for a mixed-age table, check the age guidance on the box; small parts can be a choking risk for young children. Some crackers also include a snap that makes the bang when pulled. If you want to avoid plastic waste, look for crackers with paper or metal gifts, or refillable crackers you can pack yourself.

How do I choose candles that match my crackers?

Start with the cracker's dominant colour and pick candles in a shade that either matches or deliberately contrasts. For example, if your crackers are white with gold foil, white and gold number candles will tie the look together without competing. If your crackers are bright orange and blue, a plain white or metallic candle can calm the scheme. Consider height too: tall taper candles can overshadow low centrepieces, while small number candles sit neatly on a cake or a side plate. If you're using number candles for a birthday that falls near Christmas, choose a style that feels festive but still personal—like a white and gold number candle that reads as celebratory rather than strictly seasonal.

What's the safest way to light candles on a Christmas table?

Use extra-long matches so your fingers stay well away from the flame and you can reach into deep candle holders or across a crowded table. Light the candle at the base of the wick, not the tip, and let the flame settle before moving on. Keep lit candles at least a hand's width away from crackers, paper napkins, and any loose decorations. Never move a lit candle; blow it out first. If you're lighting a fireplace or stove as part of the table setting, the same long matches work well there too. Always place candles on a stable, heatproof surface and trim wicks to about 5mm before each use to reduce smoke and uneven burning.

Can I use number candles on a Christmas cake or pudding?

Yes, number candles work on any cake, including Christmas cake and pudding, as long as the surface is firm enough to hold them. They're especially useful if you're celebrating a birthday on or near Christmas Day. The Orange & Dark Blue Birthday Number Candle - 6 is 8cm tall and comes in numbers 0-9, so you can mix and match to create any age. If you're using a number candle on a Christmas pudding, press it into the centre after the pudding has cooled slightly, and avoid placing it near holly or paper decorations. Remember that number candles are single-use; once they've burned down, they can't be relit reliably.

How many crackers and candles do I need per person?

As a rule, allow one cracker per guest, plus a few spares in case one doesn't pull cleanly. For candles, it depends on your design: one candle per person at a place setting is generous, but a cluster of three or five candles in the centre can be enough for a small table. If you're using number candles, you'll need one per digit—so for a 21st, you'd need a 2 and a 1. Check the pack contents before buying; some number candle packs include a single digit, while others include a set. For a consistent look, buy all your candles in the same finish or colour family.

What should I do with leftover crackers and candles after Christmas?

Store unopened crackers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight—they'll keep for next year if the snap hasn't been pulled. Leftover candles should be kept in their packaging or a closed box to prevent dust and fading. If you have partially used number candles, you can sometimes trim the wick and reuse them for a smaller celebration, but don't rely on them for a full burn time. Before storing, check that no crackers have been damaged; a bent or crushed cracker may not pull properly. If you're short on space, prioritise keeping the crackers and any unlit candles that match your usual table style.

Christmas crackers and candles: quick FAQ

What's inside a Christmas cracker?

A paper hat, a joke or motto, and a small gift or toy. Some crackers include a snap for the bang. Check age suitability if young children will be pulling crackers.

How do I match candles to crackers?

Pick a candle colour that echoes or deliberately contrasts with your crackers. White and gold candles work with most festive schemes. For a coordinated look, choose one metallic or neutral candle finish across the table.

What's the safest way to light candles?

Use extra-long matches to keep your hand away from the flame. Light the base of the wick, keep candles away from paper, and never leave them unattended. Trim wicks to about 5mm before lighting to reduce smoke.

Can I use number candles on Christmas cake?

Yes, if the surface is firm. Number candles come in digits 0-9 so you can combine them for any age. Press the candle into cooled cake, away from paper decorations.

How many crackers and candles per person?

One cracker per guest plus spares. For candles, one per place setting or a central cluster of three or five. For number candles, buy one for each digit you need.

How should I store leftovers?

Keep unopened crackers cool and dry. Store candles in a closed box away from sunlight. Check crackers for damage before storing; a crushed cracker may not pull.

Product facts

• Mistletoe White Long Christmas Matches - 50 Matches: Mistletoe White Long Christmas Matches - 50 Matches come in a decorative tube with a festive mistletoe and dove design, and the matches are extra-long. The extra length lets you light candles, fireplaces, or stoves without getting your fingers close to the flame, and the tube looks tidy on a mantle or table.
• White & Gold Birthday Number Candle - 21: White & Gold Birthday Number Candle - 21 is a pack containing a white and gold number 2 candle and a number 1 candle, each 5.6cm tall. This gives you a coordinated set for a 21st birthday, and the white and gold finish can blend with Christmas colours like gold, cream, or white.
• Orange & Dark Blue Birthday Number Candle - 6: Orange & Dark Blue Birthday Number Candle - 6 is 8cm tall and comes in numbers 0-9, with no glitter and bright colours. The taller size stands out on a cake, and the no-glitter finish means less mess on frosting; the full number range lets you build any age.