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How to program a drone show: Step-by-Step Guide and Cost Overview
The Netherlands has taken a major step toward greater safety and sustainability: From New Year’s Eve 2026/2027 onwards, private individuals will no longer be allowed to set off fireworks. The ban was passed by both chambers of parliament with a significant majority.
The Dutch fireworks ban is part of a growing trend across Europe: traditional pyrotechnics are increasingly under pressure.
For years, numerous stakeholders – including emergency doctors, fire brigades, municipalities, environmental and animal protection organisations – have been calling for a ban. Especially local authorities, environmentalists, the police union, and other groups have long advocated for stricter regulations.
The key reasons include:
With the ban on private fireworks, the New Year’s Eve experience in the Netherlands will change significantly. The ban also applies to private gatherings, meaning not just public events but personal use of fireworks is prohibited.
Many people are supportive. According to surveys, the majority of Dutch citizens back the ban or even favour stricter measures.
The new fireworks ban in the Netherlands is not absolute in all areas. While private fireworks are generally prohibited starting New Year’s Eve 2026, central firework displays organized by municipalities remain allowed. These public events are intended to allow people to continue celebrating New Year’s Eve together – but under controlled and safe conditions.
Private individuals who still wish to set off fireworks will need to obtain an official permit. This applies to both traditional fireworks and firecrackers for New Year’s. The permit requirement ensures better oversight and enhances safety for everyone involved. It also aims to prevent harm caused by uncontrolled fireworks.
An important aspect of the new law is cracking down on the illegal fireworks trade. In the past, individuals could often buy powerful fireworks legally in Germany and bring them to the Netherlands, even though the sale and ignition of such fireworks were already heavily restricted or banned. The new law closes this legal loophole to significantly reduce the number of illegal fireworks and the associated risks.
With the ban on private fireworks, the New Year’s Eve experience in the Netherlands will change fundamentally. The ban also applies to private gatherings and not just public events, meaning fireworks will no longer be part of private celebrations.
Many people understand the rationale. According to surveys, over 70% of Dutch citizens support the ban or even want stricter regulations.
Others see it as the loss of a cultural tradition. However, the majority acknowledges: safety and sustainability are more important today than ever.
A similar discussion is emerging in the UK. While there is no nationwide ban yet, concerns about public safety, environmental pollution, and animal welfare are increasingly fuelling the debate. Recent polls show growing public support for restrictions on fireworks.
Several local councils across the UK have already introduced measures to limit firework use. Areas such as Edinburgh, London, and parts of Greater Manchester have considered or implemented controlled zones or encouraged alternatives.
The arguments are strikingly similar to those in the Netherlands:
So what are the alternatives? How can we still celebrate New Year’s Eve in a memorable way?
A particularly innovative and sustainable alternative to traditional fireworks are drone-based light shows. These spectacular displays use coordinated drones to create stunning visual effects in the sky – without noise, smoke, or danger.
Benefits of drone shows:
While private fireworks are banned starting in 2026, cities can still host official displays – including with new technologies such as drone formations.
Some communities are already shifting toward light-based events instead of loud explosions. Flyingstars is ready to support this – with expertise, experience, and spectacular references.
Even for approved large events, stricter rules will apply in the future. The goal remains: safety and sustainability in harmony with modern entertainment.
While private fireworks will be banned from 2026, cities and towns can still organise official shows – including those using new technologies like drone formations.
Some municipalities are already shifting to light-based events instead of fireworks. FlyingStars is ready to support – with expertise, experience, and strong references.
At FlyingStars, we’re among Europe’s leading providers of choreographed drone shows. Whether for New Year’s Eve, city festivals, concerts, or corporate anniversaries – we aim to combine technology, art, and emotion in a truly captivating way.
Discover our pricing and book your drone show now.
Why FlyingStars?
Whether it’s 200, 500 or even over 1,000 drones – FlyingStars uses state-of-the-art flying drones with LED technology, GPS navigation, and synchronised music.
A New Year’s Eve with a FlyingStars show doesn’t just replace fireworks – it takes the experience to a whole new level.
How to program a drone show: Step-by-Step Guide and Cost Overview
Drones use spinning rotors and smart sensors to stay in the air. FlyingStars turns this tech into stunning drone light shows around the world.
Drone shows replace fireworks with clean, silent, and reusable technology. FlyingStars creates stunning sky animations – perfect for events, ads, or celebrations.