What Are Really Big Candles Called?

Really big candles are extra large candles that are substantially bigger than standard candles. While regular candles are typically only a few inches tall, really big candles can be over 3 feet tall and weigh multiple pounds. These oversized candles have specific names based on their shape, size and purpose.

Some of the most common names for really big candles are giant candles, column candles, torch candles, votive candles, taper candles and pillar candles. The large dimensions allow the candles to burn for many hours and be seen from a distance. Really big candles are often used for special events, ceremonies, outdoor lighting and home decor.

History of Oversized Candles

The tradition of using oversized decorative candles dates back centuries. In early European churches, giant candles known as “paschal candles” were lit to symbolize Jesus Christ as the light of the world. These candles stood several feet tall and were ornately decorated with Christian imagery.

During the medieval and Renaissance periods in Europe, tall ornamental candles became popular fixtures in the homes of nobility and wealthy merchants. Towering tapers called “torchieres” provided both light and decor. Wax and tallow pillars also adorned banquet tables at ceremonial events.

In colonial America, large candles fashioned from beeswax or whale fat continued to be prized possessions in well-to-do households. Candlemaking itself was an important craft, and gifted artisans produced elaborate candles for churches, businesses, and the homes of affluent clients.

Common Names

There are several common names used for extra large candles:

• Pillar candles
• Column candles
• Torch candles
• Giant candles

Of these, pillar candles are likely the most widely used term. Pillar candles are tall, thick candles that are often several inches in diameter and stand freely on their own without a candle holder. They come in varying heights from a few inches tall to several feet tall. Pillar candles make dramatic decorative accents and are popular for centerpieces, altars, and special occasions.

Column candles are similar to pillar candles but tend to be even taller and skinnier. The shape resembles a column, hence the name. Column candles are frequently used in large displays where dozens or even hundreds are grouped together for visual impact.

Torch candles have a tapered shape but, like pillar candles, are thick enough to stand on their own. The tapered top resembles the flame of a torch. Torch candles often come in vibrant colors.

Giant candles is a general term used for extra large candles from about 4 inches diameter and up. They are generic extra-large candles that do not have a more specific name.

So in summary, pillar, column, torch, and giant are some of the most common names used for big, oversized candles. Pillar candles are probably the most widely used and recognized name in this category.

Giant Candles

Giant candles are defined by their exceptionally large size compared to standard candles. While regular candles may be just a few inches tall, giant candles can measure over three feet in height. Some of the largest giant candles can even reach up to six feet tall!

To qualify as a giant candle, the candle must be at least 12 inches in height. However, giant candles more commonly range between 24-40 inches tall. Anything above 40 inches would be considered an extra-large or colossal giant candle.

These oversized candles make dramatic centerpieces and focal points in any space. Their sheer height and presence command attention. Giant candles come in all standard candle varieties including pillars, tapers, votives, and more. Just about any candle style can be made into a giant version.

Giant candles are popular for major holidays like Christmas and Easter. They may be placed on the floor or on tables as décor. Churches also use very large candles called paschal candles during certain religious ceremonies.

When burning giant candles, make sure to take proper fire safety precautions. The large flame can be dangerous if left unattended. Always keep giant candles on fireproof surfaces and away from flammable materials.

Column Candles

Column candles are a type of large candle that is designed to resemble a column or pillar shape. They are typically very tall, with a diameter of 3-4 inches, and can stand upwards of 3 feet high. The candle wick is centered in the middle of the candle, running down the entire length of the column. These oversized candles are made by dipping or pouring wax over a wick repeatedly to build up layer upon layer, creating the distinctive column shape.

Some key features that distinguish column candles are:

• Tall, narrow shape that mimics a column or pillar
• Diameter of 3-4 inches typically
• Can stand over 3 feet tall
• Wick runs down the center
• Made by repeatedly dipping or pouring wax over a wick
• Layered look from dipping/pouring process
• Often used as decorative or ceremonial candles

Column candles make dramatic decor accents because of their imposing height and pillar-like appearance. Their elongated design also makes them perfect for lighting walkways, entryways or lining a aisle. They are commonly used in churches, temples, and for weddings or other ceremonies that call for grandeur and elegance.

Torch Candles

Torch candles are a type of decorative candle with a unique, column-shaped design. They get their name from their resemblance to an old-fashioned torch.

Unlike taper or pillar candles, torch candles have a narrow bottom that flares outwards along the length of the candle. This gives them an elongated diamond or inverted pyramid shape. The wick runs through the center of the candle from top to bottom.

Torch candles come in a variety of heights, widths, and colors. Shorter torch candles may be just 4-6 inches tall, while large ornate torch candles can stand over 3 feet tall. Their wider tops allow for decorative shapes, colors, or embedments. Popular torch candle designs include floral shapes, colors that gradient from light to dark, or those studded with crystals or beads.

The unique shape of the torch candle serves both decorative and functional purposes. Their tapered shape helps the wax to melt evenly and prevents tunneling. The large top area also provides ample space for creative decorations and candle art.

Torch candles make dramatic accents on tables, mantels, and shelves. They are popular for centerpieces due to their eye-catching silhouette. Their elegant yet rustic look suits a wide range of home decor styles.

Votive Candles

Votive candles are small candles meant to burn for short periods of time, from 1 hour to 1 day. Historically they were designed to be used in churches, where worshipers would light a candle as an offering or to symbolize a prayer. Today, votive candles come in a huge range of sizes, shapes, and colors for home use.

Extra large votive candles can be several inches tall and wide. These oversized votives are designed to burn much longer than traditional small votives, from 4-6 hours or more. Their large size and extended burn time makes them ideal for centerpieces. The holders for extra large votive candles are also bigger to contain the large candles. Holders may be made of glass, metal, ceramic, stone, or other materials. Some holders are simple and understated to showcase the candle, while more ornate holders incorporate decorative bases and detailing. When grouped together, oversized votive candles and their holders can create a dramatic focal point or ambient lighting for events.

Taper Candles

Taper candles are long, thin candles with a tapered or narrowing shape. They are commonly used in candelabras, candle holders with multiple candle holders branching out like a tree. Taper candles come in a wide range of lengths, diameters, and colors.

Oversized taper candles are dramatic statement pieces that can be over 3 feet tall. These extralarge taper candles make an elegant impression arranged in a candelabra or standing on their own. Giant tapers are perfect for grand entryways, ballrooms, churches, and anywhere a bold candle display is desired.

Taper candles meant for candelabras usually range in length from 4 inches to 3 feet. Slim tapers around 1/2 inch in diameter create an elegant look, while wider tapers around 1 inch in diameter have a bolder presence. Tapers come in standard lengths like 6″, 10″, 12″, 18″, 24″, and 36″, with custom sizing available too. When selecting taper candles, consider the holder height and desired look.

Pillar Candles

Pillar candles are tall cylinder shaped candles that stand upright on their own. They come in a wide variety of sizes, from small votives just a few inches tall, to giant pillars that stand several feet high. The largest pillar candles are often called “giant candles” and can be over 3 feet tall with diameters exceeding 6 inches.

These supersized pillar candles are designed to make dramatic statements and serve decorative purposes. Their immense height and width commands attention. The oversized candles are commonly used on altars, mantlepieces, entranceways, and dinner tables to create an elegant ambiance. Their towering flames can brighten up any space.

To qualify as an extra-large pillar, the diameter generally needs to be over 4 inches and the height at least 18 inches. Anything larger than this fits into the giant candle category. These big pillar candles come in a range of widths like 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12 inches in diameter. They can stand anywhere from 18 inches to several feet tall. The tallest varieties are made by some manufacturers to be used outdoors due to their massive melting pool.

Large pillar candles make excellent centerpieces and decoration for special events. Their commanding presence helps set the mood. The oversized candles also burn much longer than standard sizes, providing illumination over an extended duration. For making a bold statement at a ceremony, party, or in home decor, giant pillar candles are an excellent choice.

Conclusion

In summary, candles that are unusually large in size are often referred to by specific names like giant candles, column candles, torch candles, and more. These oversized candles serve particular decorative and symbolic purposes for events, ceremonies, and interior design.

The key points about names for extra large candles include:

• Giant candles can be 3-5 feet tall and are used for major events and displays.
• Column candles are very tall, thick candles meant to resemble pillars or columns.
• Torch candles are large pillar candles that can stand on their own.
• Votive candles are typically small but extra large votive candles exist.
• Taper candles are long and thin, so large tapers can be quite dramatic.
• Pillar candles come in all sizes, so “pillar candle” alone doesn’t indicate size.

In decor, ceremonies, and celebrations, oversized candles can make quite a striking visual statement. Their grand presence matches the significance of the events where they are used. Understanding names like giant and torch candles makes it easier to find the right kind of impressively large candles for the setting.