I admit, I was skeptical when I bought these candles, but that skepticism has vanished. These candles are gorgeous, and you really can not tell them from the real thing, yet they pose no fire or burn hazard. The candles come wrapped in plastic, but as soon as you remove the plastic, the candles feel just like real pillar candles. I have a three-foot Christmas tree this year, and I put my candles under the tree. They look real, even up close, and the "flame" flickers just like real candles do when lighted. Well, the light flickers, but it looks like a real flame unless you examine it closely. They even cast shadows on the wall like a real flame would do. They made my tree look even more beautiful than it already was. And I love the remote and the timer. I can turn my candles on and off or set them to turn off automatically at the time I desire.These candles aren't just for the winter holidays. They would look great on a piano, on an end table, on a coffee table, etc. They will also work with holders. They would look wonderful on a table for a candlelight dinner party. And, you can adjust the brightness. I'm going to put mine in pillar candle holders when I take down my tree.These candles are a wonderful bargain. Pick up a set or two. I know you will love them!