International fireworks competition 2026

Northern lights inspire pyrotechnics!

Even after the anniversary year 2025, the Herrenhausen Gardens will shine in festive splendour: the International Fireworks Competition will enter its 34th season in 2026. Under the motto "Dance of Northern Lights", teams from the north will compete against each other on five evenings between May and September. Inspired by the Northern Lights, one of the most impressive natural phenomena in the world, they transform the sky above Herrenhausen into colourful displays. Just as the Northern Lights merge colours, movement and emotions into a unique spectacle, the fireworks also create a special magic that captivates the audience.

Each show begins with a compulsory piece: "Jupiter" from the orchestral suite "The Planets" by Gustav Holst, performed by the NDR Radiophilharmonie. The piece captivates with its powerful, cheerful rhythms. The teams then unfold their own stories of light, colour and sound in a 20-minute freestyle performance - individually designed and accompanied by music of their own choice.

A supporting programme with culinary offerings, picnic areas, live music and hands-on activities for children will shorten the time until the festive highlight - the fireworks.