Christmas Traditions: Ending the Year with a Bang
The last time, the last time, das letzte mal, the last time that consumers are allowed to buy and set off fireworks. A lot of fireworks are expected to go up in the air. The Dutch spent a record amount on fireworks during the 2024-2025 New Year's Eve: approximately 118 million euros, which was higher than the previous record amount of 105 million euros in 2023. According to the Dutch Pyrotechnics Association, the fireworks industry generated a turnover of 129 million euros for the 2025-2026 New Year's Eve. Last year's record of 118 million euros has been comfortably broken. We are a wealthy country!
Fireworks 2025
What does the sky look like on December 31, 2025, at midnight? Something like the image below, but with even more colors and pops!
Ireland
A nationwide fireworks ban has been in effect in Ireland for 20 years. In Dublin, for 20 years, you have only been allowed to set off sparklers, firecrackers, party props, and Christmas crackers. All other fireworks are prohibited all year round. Prohibited from buying, selling, possessing, and setting them off. The result is a decrease in the number of hospital admissions due to fireworks-related injuries. Enforcement is strict, with a fine of up to 10.000 euros or five years in prison. The government continuously broadcasts media campaigns on TV and radio starting from the Halloween period.
Minimal fireworks are purchased in Northern Ireland. Compared to our country, where we buy and smuggle fireworks across the border.
Cabinet, look at other countries where a fireworks ban is already in effect. Banning the setting off of fireworks while allowing the purchase of them does not work.
Added: Ireland and the fireworks ban and its effects.