Tomorrowland Banned from Fireworks During Weekend One of 2026

Tomorrowland will not be permitted to use fireworks or pyrotechnics during the first weekend of its 2026 edition. The mayors of Boom and Rumst, along with Provincial Governor Cathy Berx, issued the ban following recommendations from the fire department.

Drought Conditions Drive Safety Decision

The decision stems from an extended period of hot weather that has created severe drought conditions around the festival site. Rumst mayor Jurgen Callaerts explained the urgency: "It is too dry in the area. Code orange is in effect until Tuesday." Fire officials and security services reportedly reached consensus quickly, with Callaerts noting there was little debate during the meeting with the governor and emergency personnel. Authorities confirmed the ban will remain in place for the weekend, with no changes expected in the next 48 hours.

Festival Organisers Express Disappointment

The restriction marks a significant blow to the festival's production plans, particularly since Tomorrowland had already been prohibited from using pyrotechnic equipment away from the stages. Spokesperson Debby Wilmsen said fireworks are an important part of the spectacle and difficult to replace with something as magical. She ruled out drones as an alternative, citing the festival's proximity to the airport—a solution that has been used at Tomorrowland Brasil.

Tension escalated when organisers claimed they learned of the decision through media reports rather than direct consultation. Callaerts disputed this, stating the organisation was informed immediately after the final decision was made.

The ban currently applies only to weekend one, though authorities indicated measures for the second weekend will be determined later. A final security meeting is scheduled for Thursday morning, one day before the festival opens to over 200,000 attendees.