As the Fourth of July approaches, Americans around the country are preparing for their holiday plans, likely starting with or ending in a fireworks display, while the rest of us look forward to the video recap on the news. 
Fireworks have become synonymous with major events not just in America but in countries across the globe. Here are a few of my favourite photos of fireworks around the world.
Sydney Harbour Bridge, Australia
New Year’s Eve sitting in the warm summer air under the Sydney Harbour bridge as it lights up into a ball of flame is the most incredible of my memories, after all the many fireworks around the world I have seen. It is certainly incredible and a must-experience (and thankfully lots of vantage points around Sydney to check it out from).
Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida
I’ve long felt that Disney has been the one of the first to master the travel experience – knowing that it’s not just having a great offer but an entire package built around that offer, with attention to even the most minor detail. So we couldn’t leave off Disney’s fairytale castle as part of the best fireworks around the world, because, well, it’s a world-class experience.
The London Eye on New Year’s Eve
London isn’t a likely suspect for incredible fireworks displays, but I must say watching the London Eye look like it’s about to spin out of control and roar off into the night sky is pretty incredible. The most circular of our fireworks around the world, it’s well worth a peek.
Singapore Fireworks Celebration
Singapore goes all out for their National Day with a fireworks celebration that isn’t to be overlooked. It’s not just a single event but numerous displays and activities go on during the celebrations, so if you’re looking to really soak up the experience, this is one of the best fireworks around the world events, without questino.
Anywhere in Canada for Canada Day
The above gorgeous shot was taken in Edmonton, but to be honest, if you find yourself anywhere in Canada for Canada Day, you’ll be fine for fireworks. Around the world, Canadians celebrate their national day, but it’s here in their heartland where you’ll find some spectacular displays, from the major cities to rural towns who have lots of open space to light the night sky.
Hong Kong Harbour
Hong Kong never seems to have an excuse to celebrate – and they certainly have a majestic harbour to do it in. Fireworks around the world have nothing on the view here; from major holidays to post-light show extravaganza, check your diary and find out when they’ll be lighting up the harbour. And don’t miss it.
Tokyo Bay Great Fireworks Festival
The Japanese know what they’re talking about when they do fireworks. Fireworks are a summer feature at events all over the country, but it’s only at this festival where you’ll bump into the killer ‘size 5′ ball which takes over the night sky. The Tokyo Bay Great Fireworks Festival is the most popular, but it’s busy and crazy. And very Tokyo – so don’t miss it, as one of the wildest display of fireworks around the world.
Anywhere in the UK for Guy Fawkes Night
Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the UK parliament, but his plot was foiled. Today, every year on November 5th, the UK (and many commonwealth nations) light the skies in remembrance of this event. Fireworks seem to shoot off from everywhere, in every city regardless of organised events or not. This ‘holiday’ truly goes, as far as the fireworks, around the world!
Diwali Festival of Light in India
Diwali is one of India’s most beautiful festivals and another great reason to visit this country. Diwali features ceremonies, festivals, colourful decorations, and candles nearly everywhere you can possibly imagine. So it only makes sense to colour the last remaining bit – the skies – with fireworks.
Pyrotechnics Guild Annual Conference
The Pyrotechnics Guild (PGI for short), is a great place to be if you LOVE fireworks. Around the world, this group holds conferences and exhibitions where they try new and unseen fireworks tricks. Many events are open to the public – check the website for details. And don’t forget your camera.
Photo Credit: linh_r0m, hyku, tom_bennett, tony george, ceasol, intercontinental hong kong, jetalone, Glen Bowman, mckaysavage, jvc_scout_mom
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
Wow! Great collection of photo’s Andy! I especially love the Hong Kong Harbour one. Thanks for including Canada Day
Gorgeous shots. I was in Sydney last New Year’s and watched from Cockatoo Island. Beautiful.
Don’t forget Vancouver’s Celebration of Light, one of the best shows in the world! http://www.celebration-of-light.com/
Great collection of photos – excellent idea for a photo essay.
Thanks everyone
I just love fireworks, and love there are the different traditions everywhere.
Carlo, Vancouver is my FAVOURITE, how could I have missed theirs? Wow.
Hey! You forgot Spain! Every 24th June, in order to celebrate the shortest night of the year, spanish people fill the streets in the night and burst crackers. There are many fireworks too!
Oh good one, thanks Anji!