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Dutch Fireworks Enthusiasts Go Big as National Ban Looms

A Senate vote signaled an upcoming prohibition on consumer sales or use, with only professional displays plus limited F1 items likely allowed.

Overview

  • Utrecht resident Mitchell Laing staged a filmed neighborhood show in Zuilen, estimating about €3,000 in fireworks with sponsorship and community contributions.
  • Several municipalities, including Utrecht, Amersfoort, Soest and Utrechtse Heuvelrug, already barred consumer fireworks for this New Year’s Eve.
  • The nationwide measure is expected to end consumer purchasing and use, keeping professional displays and items like sparklers in the F1 category permissible.
  • Gaanderen hobbyist Daniel Bruil, who typically spends €500–€700 a year, laments the shift and says problems largely stem from illegal fireworks.
  • Implementation timing and enforcement details for the national prohibition remain unclear, prompting some enthusiasts to consider trips to Germany to keep the tradition alive.