Belgian officials have banned fireworks at Tomorrowland's opening weekend following extreme heat that has left the region at high risk of wildfires. Mayors Jeroen Baert of Boom and Jurgen Callaerts of Rumst, together with Provincial Governor Cathy Berx, issued the order on advice from the fire department. The region is currently under Code Orange, Belgium's second-highest fire risk level, which advises against activities that could spark fires in natural areas.
Extra Effects to Replace Pyrotechnics
The festival will compensate for the absence of fireworks with additional show elements. "We are going to provide extra show elements, such as confetti, smoke bombs, and sparklers," says spokeswoman Debby Wilmsen. She added, "The focus currently seems to be very much on the fireworks, while that is merely a concluding element of a show. Our planned light shows will also go ahead. It is going to be worth it regardless." Local laws also prevent the festival from substituting a drone show.
Weekend 2 Outlook
The ban is currently in effect until Tuesday. "We assume that we will be allowed to use stage fireworks next weekend," Wilmsen said. With a slight chance of rain forecast for next week, organizers are hopeful that the second weekend will proceed with a full fireworks display.
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