British Fireworks Championships returns to Plymouth
The annual event returns to the Hoe, and will see six of the country's leading professional pyrotechnic companies compete across the two nights
The British Fireworks Championship returns to Plymouth Hoe this week with six top pyrotechnic companies competing for the coveted title.
The first evening, on Wednesday, August 12 coincides with a solar eclipse when Plymouth is expecting to witness 95 per cent of the Sun covered by the Moon.
The eclipse will begin just after 6.15pm and end after 8pm – just as the crowds are expected to gather ahead of the fireworks spectacle at 9.30pm.Â
Plymouth Hoe will be the best location to watch the fireworks with each display lasting ten minutes.
In addition to these impressive light shows will be plenty of food and drink stalls, as well as fairground rides, street performers and live music to enjoy from 5pm. It is recommended that visitors arrive early to secure a good spot especially if they are planning to set up with blankets or chairs.
The fireworks can also be witnessed from the water but people are being asked to familiarise themselves with the water safety exclusion zone which will be in place between 9pm and 10.40pm. Go to https://www.visitplymouth.co.uk/whats-on/major-events/british-firework-championships/safety-information for a map.
For those who cannot attend, the event will be live streamed.
Since they were launched in 1997 by the Event Services Association (TESA), the British Firework Championships, run in partnership with Plymouth City Council, have become a signature event both for the UK firework industry and Plymouth, attracting global media coverage and visitors from as far afield as Australia.Â
SelStar Fireworks were crowned the Champion of Champions at the British Firework Championships 2025.
2026 COMPETITORSÂ
This year’s event run in partnership with Associated British Ports and ZeroUSV will see Electrify Pyrotechnics, Smart Pyrotechnics Ltd and G2 Fireworks compete on Wednesday and Nemisis Pyrotechnics Ltd, AJ Pyrotechnics Ltd and The Fireworkers Ltd on Thursday.
Two judging panels will be involved in deciding the outcome of the competition – one made up of professionals from the world of pyrotechnics and the other a lay judging panel drawn from across the city.  Â
There is also a panel of local care-experienced children and young people who will give their own Young People’s Choice Award.
The winning team will be crowned at the awards ceremony after the fireworks have finished on Thursday, August 13 and announced online the next morning.
LIVE MUSIC
Wednesday, August 12
Electrifying horn-led dance band The Shred will be performing from 5.30pm – 6.30pm
High energy 10-piece soul, funk, blues and disco band Joey The Lips will be on stage from 7pm -9pm
Thursday, August 13
Soul, jazz, lounge and funk covers band Moon Groove perform from 5.30pm to 6.30pm
Joey The Lips are on from 7pm – 8.30pm
RULES AND RESTRICTIONS
As the event is on public space there are no restrictions about bringing dogs but organisers advise that due to the loud noises throughout the event to not bring dogs who may be scared of the noise.Â
You cannot bring your own sparklers/ fireworks to the event.
Due to safety measures no barbecues will be permitted on The Hoe
GETTING THERE AND PARKINGÂ
There are over 50 car parks and more than 5,200 parking spaces in the city which visitors can use plus lots of on street parking and disabled parking in every car park
Drake Circus and the Barcode have over 1,600 parking spaces available.
An extended parking area will be available on the Hoe promenade for blue badge holders, but spaces will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis. Access will be via Elliott Street entrance to the Hoe promenade from 4pm.Â
There will be various road closures in place for the event.
Usual park and ride services will be available. The last departure from Coypool Park and Ride is at 6.35pm on August 12 and 13. Other services to the city centre will be available through Stagecoach and Plymouth Citybus.
ADVICE
Because of the hot weather people are being advised to bring their own water bottle and use the water point to keep hydrated and wear appropriate clothing for the weather.
If you choose to view the eclipse remember, never look directly at the Sun, even with sunglasses. Use certified eclipse glasses that meet the international safety standard or an appropriate indirect viewing method instead.Â
For more information visit the Visit Plymouth website: https://www.visitplymouth.co.uk/whats-on/major-events/british-firework-championships