International Fireworks Competition Hannover — 1st Evening (Denmark)

Over Three Decades of World-Class Fireworks

The International Fireworks Competition Hannover was launched in 1992 and has since developed into the most prestigious fireworks competition in the world. The organizers are the Herrenhäuser Gärten and Hannover Marketing & Tourismus. Over the decades, top pyrotechnicians from more than 40 nations have performed — from the USA and Canada, Italy, France, Spain, Great Britain, Sweden, and Finland to Japan, China, Russia, Australia, and Latin America. The competition is judged by an internationally recognized jury, and the audience awards its own prize.

34th Edition 2026 — Dance of Northern Lights

The 2026 theme is 'Dance of Northern Lights,' drawing inspiration from the fascination of the Nordic Aurora Borealis. Pyrotechnicians are encouraged to connect with the mythical appearance of the Aurora Borealis using colors (green, violet, blue-turquoise, gold), movement motifs, and atmospheric effects. At the same time, the format remains tied to classical music: each show must be choreographed synchronously to a live musical performance.

Mandatory Composition: 'Jupiter' from Holst's Planets

In 2026, all participating teams must integrate the piece 'Jupiter' from Gustav Holst's Planets Suite (composed 1914–17) into their performance. 'Jupiter,' the most majestic and festive movement of the suite, is perfectly suited for the musical accompaniment of grand fireworks effects. The NDR Radiophilharmonie, conducted by its chief conductor, will perform the work live on each of the five evenings. In addition to the mandatory composition, teams will select other pieces that harmonize with their pyrotechnic choreography concepts.

1st Evening: Team Denmark

The team from Denmark will kick off the event on May 16. Denmark has a strong tradition in wedding and ceremonial fireworks and is home to some of the most renowned European pyrotechnics companies. Which Danish company will represent the country in 2026 will be announced by the organizer in advance. As a rule, Danish teams bring a special touch of Nordic elegance, technical precision, and musical sensitivity to the stage.

Great Garden as a World Stage

The Great Garden of Herrenhausen is one of Europe's most significant Baroque gardens. Laid out under Elector Sophia of Hanover starting in 1666 and largely preserved in its original form since then, it is a UNESCO World Heritage candidate and one of Lower Saxony's most visited attractions. With its grand fountains, geometrically trimmed hedges, bosquets, stages, and an impressive main axis, it provides an unparalleled backdrop for the fireworks displays — the pyrotechnics rise from the Great Parterre, utilizing the open sky above the garden.

Ticket Categories

Tickets are available in several categories: seats in the fixed grandstands, standing room in marked areas, picnic area on the lawns (bring your own blankets). A premium category includes a champagne reception, private seating area, and catering. Tickets are available via feuerwerk-hannover.de and Eventim.