International Warm-Up Competition

Before the countdown to “ignition,” visitors enjoy a fantastic spectacle featuring live music, street performers, cabaret, and theater—all tailored to the participating country. As soon as security clears the back section of the Grote Gaarn, the show begins, and the first spark lights up the sky.

Fireworks display

In front of the illuminated hedges, elegant silhouettes of people can be seen, their anticipation growing—until the first burst of fireworks illuminates the ornaments in the flower beds. Again and again, cascades of purple, emerald green, or violet plunge into the depths, and fountains shoot up as fast as lightning to impressive heights, where they then dissolve with a loud bang into golden mist and rain down in a flash.

© Malte Reiter

The elite pyrotechnic teams create unique, dramatically crafted choreographies—meticulously synchronized with the music. A spectacular show. Breathtaking. Unforgettable. On the fifth and final day of the competition, the jury will select the winner, and visitors can look forward to an exciting awards ceremony.

© Sebastian Gerhard

Tickets, teams, info

International fireworks competition 2026

Dates, tickets, and information about the International Fireworks Competition at the Herrenhausen Gardens.

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