ParticleIllusion

screenshot of ParticleiIlusion interface

includes (A) composition window (B) particle sample viewer

(C) emitter properties window (D) animation timeline

(E) emitter library

Most NLE editing systems worth their salt will include some sort of particle emission system to add splash, sparkle and shine effects to video productions. The degree of versatility depends on the software but quite often you are left facing a somewhat steep learning curve. If what you want is something that will add these effects with a more user-friendly, drag and drop approach then I suggest you look at ParticleIlusion by Wondertouch.

You may face limitations with playback if you plan to use an animated background for reference in the composition window, but so far, most small clips I have attempted (10-15 sec. range for titling) works great for creating sparkle trails with an alpha channel to drop in as targa sequences. It comes with a great selection of flares, sparkles, star trails, jet streams, fire, smoke.....more than you will probably ever need. What I really appreciate is the quickness of this application as you set an emitter point, move the timeline, set a new location, intensity, etc. and it automatically sets an editable keypoint for you. Their website shows tutorial videos for emitter basics, editing and use with HD.
 Go there and download a trial copy to play around with and I feel you'll be lost just testing out the different particle systems in the viewer.