World Fireworks Championship set to light up skies over Blackpool - all you need to know
"The championships offer the perfect opportunity to experience two of Blackpool's greatest attractions in one visit”
The skies above Blackpool will be a sea of colour this weekend as the first heat of the World Fireworks Championship is held.
Wales are first to compete this Saturday, September 12, with South Africa and Germany set to follow on September 26 and October 10 respectively.
All three of this year's competitors are returning to the resort, having previously claimed victory in the Championships and setting the stage for three spectacular evenings of world-class pyrotechnic entertainment against the backdrop of the Illuminations.
Each breathtaking display - synchronised to music and launched from the beach in front of The Blackpool Tower - is completely free to attend,
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What to look out for
Saturday, September 12 – Wales will be represented by Celtic Fireworks, who last competed in Blackpool in 2022.
On that occasion, they overcame challenging weather conditions to claim first place with a breathtaking display choreographed to a soundtrack celebrating iconic Welsh music.
Build-up is from 7.45pmm with firing time 8.15pm.
Saturday, September 26 – South Africa will be represented by Fireworks for Africa, recognised as one of that continent's leading special effects and fireworks specialists.
Fireworks for Africa previously wowed audiences and judges alike when they took the championship crown in 2017.
Build-up will be from 7.15pm, with firing time 7.45pm.
Saturday, October 10 – Germany’s representative is Haupt Feuerwerke, who were originally invited to compete in 2020, but their debut was delayed for a year by the Covid-19 pandemic.
When the team took to the skies above Blackpool in 2021, they delivered a dazzling display that secured first place.
Build-up is from 7pm, with firing time 7.30pm.
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What Blackpool Council says
Blackpool Council leader Cllr Lynn Williams said: "The World Fireworks Championship Blackpool are always a highlight of the town's events calendar and this year's competition promises to be another outstanding spectacle.
"All three teams are former champions, which means audiences can look forward to three evenings of world-class entertainment from some of the best pyrotechnic companies in the world.
"The championships offer the perfect opportunity to experience two of Blackpool's greatest attractions in one visit, with the spectacular Illuminations providing a backdrop to these fantastic displays."
Blackpool Tourism’s view
Kate Shane, managing director of Blackpool Tourism Limited, said: "Blackpool is renowned for delivering world-class events.
"Following the fantastic opening weekend of the Blackpool Illuminations, we are looking forward to welcoming thousands of visitors to the Promenade over the coming weeks to enjoy three unforgettable evenings of fireworks, music and family entertainment.
"With three former champions returning to compete, the standard is set to be exceptionally high and we can't wait to see each team light up the skies above Blackpool."
For more information about the teams competing, visit visitblackpool.com/fireworks.