A Catherine wheel is a firework in the shape of a circle which spins round and round, emitting a range of colours, sparks and pops as it rotates.
A Catherine wheel must be attached to a post with a good clearance space around it. The Catherine Wheel is attached with a nail (usually included) that is hammered in enough to prevent it spinning off but not so much as it prevents turning.
Popular across the board and with those wishing to avoid any large bangs.