There’s something so mesmerizing about watching fireworks.
It’s fascinating how they are a universal symbol of celebration.
They mark milestones, commemorate important events, and unite people in ways few things can.
Think about it: how many times have you been at a fireworks show, standing shoulder to shoulder with strangers, all gazing up at the same dazzling spectacle?
For those moments, everything else disappears, and it’s just you, the fireworks, and the sky.
Beautiful, right?
While your neighborhood might throw together a decent Fourth of July celebration with some sparklers and a few “ooh-worthy” bursts, there are places around the world where fireworks are the main event.
We’re talking about record-breaking displays that light up entire cities, festivals that draw millions of people every year, and shows that are so perfectly choreographed that they feel like art in motion.
And the good news is that we’ve rounded up the most spectacular, largest, and breathtaking fireworks shows from around the world.
Let’s get started!
Key Takeaways
- Arrive early or book in advance to secure the best viewing spots for popular shows like Dubai’s New Year’s Eve or Sydney’s Harbour fireworks.
- Don’t miss the unique features of each event, like the Yonshakudama in Niigata or Cannes’ fireworks synchronized with music on the French Riviera.
- Enhance the experience by pairing the show with local activities, such as a picnic by the Eiffel Tower on Bastille Day or exploring Disney’s attractions before Epcot’s fireworks.
1. Guy Fawkes Night – United Kingdom
When: November 5
Where: All over the UK
“Remember, remember the fifth of November!”
Forget the nursery rhyme; it’s the heart of one of the UK’s most beloved traditions.
If you don’t know the story, in 1605, Guy Fawkes and his buddies hatched a not-so-brilliant plan to blow up the House of Lords. Spoiler: they failed.
Fast-forward to today, and the Brits commemorate the day with roaring bonfires, sky-filling fireworks, and delicious treats.
But Sheffield takes it up a notch, as its fireworks displays are some of the biggest and boldest in the country.
Picture thousands of people huddled together, sparklers in hand, as the sky erupts into a kaleidoscope of colors.
Vendors line the streets, selling everything from roasted chestnuts to glowing light wands; you could say it feels like a fiery carnival.
2. New Year’s Eve – Dubai, United Arab Emirates
When: December 31
Where: Dubai
Dubai is the epitome of “go big or go home,” and its New Year’s Eve fireworks are proof of that.
In 2014, Dubai shattered a Guinness World Record with a display that unleashed 500,000 fireworks in just six minutes. Yes, you read that right.
But the star of the show has to be The Burj Khalifa—the tallest building in the world.
This towering skyscraper becomes a pyrotechnic masterpiece, with fireworks cascading down its sides like glittering waterfalls.
And if you’re planning to witness this spectacle in person, book early because prime viewing spots like The Dubai Fountain and rooftop lounges fill up fast.
Do you want to feel like you’re in the center of the universe? If so, Dubai on New Year’s Eve is the place to be.
3. New Year’s Eve – Sydney, Australia
When: December 31
Where: Sydney
When you think of ringing in the New Year, Sydney is always ahead of the curve—literally.
Thanks to time zones, it’s one of the first major cities to celebrate, and boy, does it know how to throw a party.
Over a million people flock to Sydney Harbour to see the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House take center stage in a 12-minute fireworks extravaganza.
That said, what makes it extra special?
Well, every year, the display has a new theme.
In 2017, rainbow fireworks celebrated Australia’s legalization of same-sex marriage.
So, grab your spot early (like, before noon) at Circular Quay or the Royal Botanic Garden, or join the other 1 billion people watching it live on TV.
Trust me, Sydney knows how to enter the New Year, and you’ll want to be there to experience it.
4. Bastille Day – Paris, France
When: July 14
Where: Paris
Oh là là, if there’s one thing the French know, it’s how to celebrate in style.
Bastille Day is like the French version of the Fourth of July but with a Parisian twist.
The fireworks show takes place right in front of the Eiffel Tower, and let me tell you—it’s a vibe.
Think synchronized explosions of light and color paired with a dramatic soundtrack, often featuring French classics and international hits.
Themes in the past have ranged from “Peace” to “Disco,” proving the French know how to mix culture and fun.
The best spot to watch is The Champ de Mars, but you’ll need to camp out early to snag a good view.
Alternatively, you can grab a cozy spot along the Seine River and watch as Paris’s most famous landmark sparkles and booms.
5. Independence Day – New York City, USA
When: July 4
Where: NYC
Nobody does the Fourth of July quite like the Big Apple, and they just might hold the biggest fireworks show in the US.
The Macy’s Fireworks Spectacular is a full-blown American classic.
Picture 75,000 shells fired from six barges along the Hudson River, painting the sky in red, white, and blue.
This is like a patriotic light show with a side of wow.
Prime viewing spots include Brooklyn Bridge Park and South Street Seaport, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with a rooftop bar overlooking the skyline.
Fun fact: The fireworks shoot up to three times the height of the Statue of Liberty.
That’s some serious altitude.
Grab your friends, a blanket, and maybe a hot dog or two—this is NYC doing what it does best.
6. Montreal International Fireworks Competition – Montreal, Canada
When: June–August
Where: Montreal
What’s better than firework shows?
A full-blown fireworks competition, of course!
Montreal’s International Fireworks Competition, or L’International des Feux Loto-Québec (for when you want to sound fancy), is the world’s biggest fireworks competition.
Here’s how it works: the planet’s top pyrotechnic teams go head-to-head, creating 30-minute “pyro-musical” masterpieces that sync jaw-dropping fireworks with perfectly chosen music.
Each performance tells a story, with bursts of color and light dancing to everything from classical symphonies to pop anthems.
The best seats in the house are at La Ronde amusement park, where you can get front-row views and make a day of it with rides and snacks.
And if you’re not keen on buying a ticket? No worries—riverside spots all over the city offer fantastic (and free!) views.
It’s like the Olympics of fireworks but with way more sparkle, and it is way more fun.
7. Tokyo Bay Fireworks Festival – Tokyo, Japan
When: August
Where: Tokyo
Fireworks have been part of Japanese culture for centuries, and the Tokyo Bay Fireworks Festival is one of their best.
Over 12,000 fireworks light up the sky, reflecting beautifully on the water below.
It’s zen meets excitement.
People flock to Odaiba and Harumi Park for the best views, but here’s a pro tip: book a spot on one of the bay’s cruise boats.
Oh, and it’s said that viewing the display from the water is next level, so it’s worth giving it a crack.
8. Katakai Fireworks Festival – Niigata, Japan
When: September
Where: Niigata
Welcome to Katakai, the home of world records, tradition, and fireworks so massive they’ll leave your jaw on the floor.
This small town in Japan is the site of the Yonshakudama, the largest firework on the planet.
This one-meter-wide beast explodes into a stunning burst that spans 800 meters across the sky.
Yes, you read that right—it’s basically a mini sun lighting up the night.
But Katakai is also steeped in over 400 years of tradition.
The festival is a celebration of community and craftsmanship, as it, interestingly, blends ancient rituals with modern pyrotechnics.
From the first explosion to the grand finale, you’ll feel the heart and history of every single firework.
9. Cannes Fireworks Festival – Cannes, France
When: Summer
Where: Cannes
Cannes might be famous for its glitzy film festival, but during the summer, it’s all about the Festival d’Art Pyrotechnique.
This six-night extravaganza brings the world’s best pyrotechnic teams to the French Riviera for a competition that’s as glamorous as the city itself.
Each team gets one night to wow the audience with fireworks perfectly synced to music.
And you can enjoy it all from the comfort of the Promenade de la Croisette or, better yet, from a yacht if you’re feeling fancy.
Imagine sipping champagne as the night sky bursts into color.
Très chic, indeed.
10. Thunder Over Louisville – Louisville, USA
When: May
Where: Louisville
Let’s get one thing straight: Thunder Over Louisville is one of the biggest displays in North America, and it’s the official kickoff to the legendary Kentucky Derby Festival.
Picture this: thousands of fireworks launched from eight massive barges on the Ohio River, lighting up the sky for 30 minutes.
This is a full-on sensory experience, complete with a synchronized soundtrack that amps up the drama.
You’ll find 650,000 people gathering to see the show, all buzzing with excitement.
Whether you’re watching from the waterfront or snagging a rooftop spot, the vibes are electric.
11. Celebration of Light – Vancouver, Canada
When: July
Where: Vancouver
Every summer, Vancouver transforms into a vibrant hub of light and music with the Celebration of Light.
This is a three-night showdown where international teams battle it to claim fireworks supremacy.
Think of it as the World Cup of pyrotechnics with way more sparkles.
Each 25-minute display is choreographed to music, which is something you don’t see very often.
The event takes place over English Bay, and trust me, the views are spectacular.
You’ll find over a million spectators spread across beaches, boats, and parks, which creates an electric atmosphere that feels more like a giant outdoor festival.
Pro tip: Get there early to stake out your spot—Kitsilano Beach and Vanier Park are fan favorites.
And if you’re feeling fancy, book a boat cruise to watch the show from the water.
12. Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival – Shiga, Japan
When: August
Where: Lake Biwa
Imagine watching fireworks reflect off a shimmering lake, doubling the beauty in every burst.
You get that at the Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival, held on Japan’s largest freshwater lake.
No joke: this is a full-blown cultural experience, and if you can make it, there’s no question you won’t be disappointed.
Over 10,000 fireworks light up the sky, with each year bringing a fresh theme.
In 2021, it was “Sengoku Wonderland,” blending historical motifs with dazzling displays.
The festival draws a crowd of 350,000, so you’ll want to plan ahead.
Prime viewing spots include Nagahama Castle Historical Museum and Omi Ohashi Bridge, but you can also find free spaces along the lake’s shore.
Bring a picnic, a blanket, and soak up the serene vibes as the lake mirrors the explosions above.
It’s peaceful, stunning, and unforgettable—a true Japanese gem.
13. San Francisco Bay Fireworks – San Francisco, USA
When: New Year’s Eve
Where: San Francisco
San Francisco’s New Year’s Eve fireworks are the perfect mix of laid-back and celebratory, just like the city itself.
The show takes place over the bay, with the Ferry Building offering one of the best vantage points.
From here, you’ll catch colorful explosions framed by the Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge.
Whether you’re bundled up on the waterfront with friends or sipping champagne at a rooftop bar, this show is the ideal way to ring in the New Year.
Pro tip: Dress warm—it can get chilly by the water—but don’t let that stop you from joining in on one of California’s most iconic celebrations.
14. Happily Ever After – Orlando, USA
When: Nightly
Where: Walt Disney World
If Disney knows one thing, it’s how to make dreams come true—and “Happily Ever After” at Magic Kingdom is no exception.
This is a story told through light, sound, and a whole lot of Disney magic.
Set against Cinderella’s Castle, the display features dazzling pyrotechnics, heartwarming music, and projections of your favorite characters from classics like The Lion King and Frozen.
It’s designed to make you feel all the feels, and yes, it’s totally okay to cry.
However, what sets this show apart is its storytelling.
Every explosion, every note of music, and every visual is perfectly timed to tug at your heartstrings.
Bonus: Watching it in person is even better than the YouTube videos.
15. Epcot’s Luminous: The Symphony of Us – Orlando, USA
When: Nightly
Where: Epcot at Walt Disney World
Epcot’s “Luminous: The Symphony of Us” is like a love letter to humanity wrapped in a fireworks display.
The show blends fireworks, fountains, and music to tell a story of unity and connection—a reminder that we’re all in this together.
Picture bursts of light synchronized with powerful music, with the World Showcase Lagoon as the stage.
It’s like a giant hug from the universe.
You can watch from anywhere around the lagoon, but for the best views, snag a spot early near Canada or Italy’s pavilions.
And if you’re lucky enough to pair it with one of Epcot’s food festivals? Even better.
This is a celebration of the world and its people—how great is that?
16. Niigata Fireworks Trio – Niigata, Japan
When: Throughout the year
Where: Niigata
Why settle for one fireworks festival when you can have three?
Niigata is home to the Katakai Fireworks Festival, Gion Kashiwazaki Festival, and Nagaoka Fireworks Festival, each bringing something extraordinary to the table.
Let’s start with Katakai, where they launch the Yonshakudama, the largest firework in the world.
This massive beast is over a meter wide and explodes into an 800-meter-wide burst.
Then there’s Gion Kashiwazaki, which combines fireworks with the ocean’s natural beauty.
The bursts then light up the night sky and reflect off the waves, and that creates a dreamlike display that’s equal parts serene and spectacular.
Finally, Nagaoka caps off the summer with over 20,000 fireworks spread across two nights, each display perfectly choreographed to music.
It’s no wonder Niigata has earned its reputation for being a masterclass in Japanese precision and artistry.
17. Miami Beach Fourth of July Celebration – Miami, USA
When: July 4
Where: Bayfront Park, Miami
Miami knows how to throw a party, and their Fourth of July celebration is evidence of that.
Just imagine you’re at Bayfront Park, soaking in the tropical breeze while enjoying live music, food stalls, and family-friendly activities.
As the sun sets, the Miami skyline becomes the backdrop for one of South Florida’s most stunning fireworks displays.
The show itself is a dazzling explosion of color and light, reflecting off Biscayne Bay and lighting up the night in true Miami style.
And the little ones are covered with a dedicated children’s corner packed with games and activities.
Adults can grab a drink, kick back, and let the tropical vibes take over.
18. San Diego’s Big Bay Boom – San Diego, USA
When: July 4
Where: San Diego Bay
If California knows one thing, it’s how to put on a fireworks show, and San Diego’s Big Bay Boom will show you exactly why it has this reputation.
This is one of the largest Independence Day displays on the West Coast, and it’s all about location, location, location.
The fireworks are launched from barges scattered across San Diego Bay, so you have plenty of prime viewing spots.
Top picks? Coronado, Shelter Island, Harbor Island, and Seaport Village.
What makes this show special are the reflections on the water, which double the spectacle and create a stunning mirror-like effect.
Pro tip: Get there early because those coveted waterfront spots fill up faster than you can say “Happy Fourth!”
With the city’s skyline in the background and the bay shimmering below, this show is nothing short of magical.
19. Las Vegas New Year’s Eve – Las Vegas, USA
When: December 31
Where: The Las Vegas Strip
Vegas doesn’t do anything small, and their New Year’s Eve fireworks are crazy, in the best way.
This city, already bursting with lights and energy, kicks things up a notch when the clock strikes midnight.
Hotels along the iconic Strip launch synchronized fireworks, filling the desert sky with a kaleidoscope of color and patterns.
It’s over-the-top in true Vegas fashion, and it perfectly captures the spirit of Las Vegas.
But if you want, arguably, the best view, then head to one of the city’s rooftop bars, like the Foundation Room at Mandalay Bay or the Ghost Bar at The Palms.
From there, you can sip champagne and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the chaos below.
Don’t Dream It—See It for Yourself
Fireworks are moments that bring people together, make your heart race, and create memories you’ll never forget.
So why not see it for yourself?
Grab your calendar, pick a destination, and start dreaming about where you’ll be standing when the sky lights up.
Trust me, it’ll be a moment you’ll talk about for years to come.
The world’s waiting, and let the night sky fill you with wonder.
