Final day for fireworks sales begins after busy Monday

Fireworks stores across the Netherlands are gearing up for a busy final day of sales on Tuesday, following a strong turnout on Monday despite forecasts of hazardous winds for New Year’s Eve celebrations.

“Monday was bustling,” said Leo Groeneveld, chairman of the Dutch Pyrotechnics Trade Association (BPN). “Saturday was already a great day, and today [Monday], many people came to pick up their orders.” Groeneveld reported that online orders were up 16 percent compared to last year. Around half of store visitors collected online purchases, while the rest bought fireworks on-site, he added.

This year’s sales began Saturday, the first day retailers were permitted to sell fireworks. Sunday was a no-sale day, but the momentum resumed Monday with what Groeneveld described as “pleasantly busy” scenes in stores nationwide. Many shops enhanced their festive atmosphere with music and traditional treats like oliebollen.

Retailers are optimistic about Tuesday, New Year’s Eve, the final day for fireworks sales. “On the last day, many people come in with friends or neighbors to buy fireworks together,” Groeneveld said. “They ask the shopkeeper for recommendations, such as, ‘What can I get for 150 euros?’”

If the strong sales trend continues, total revenue from fireworks sales could reach 10 percent more than last year’s 105 million euros, Groeneveld estimated. Final figures are expected after sales conclude Tuesday evening.

Forecasts of strong winds, with gusts reaching up to 100 kilometers per hour, have not deterred shoppers, Groeneveld noted. However, the weather has prompted some municipalities to adjust their New Year’s Eve traditions.

In The Hague, authorities moved the iconic bonfires in Scheveningen and Duindorp to Monday evening due to safety concerns. A similar precaution was taken for the bonfire in Amsterdam-Noord.

Overall, nineteen municipalities have implemented a total fireworks ban this year, while approximately 100 others have designated fireworks-free zones. In The Hague’s Tarwekamp neighborhood, where six people died earlier this month due to explosions, a consumer fireworks ban has been enforced at the request of residents.

In municipalities where fireworks are allowed, consumers may start setting them off at 6 p.m. Tuesday.

Groeneveld urged the public to exercise caution when using fireworks, especially in light of the strong wind forecasts. He advised individuals to stand with their backs to the wind and to wear protective eyewear.

Despite the weather challenges, Groeneveld maintained that decorative fireworks are less affected by wind compared to rockets, which remain banned in the Netherlands this year. However, some consumers have reportedly crossed borders to purchase rockets.

Municipalities hosting public fireworks or light shows are expected to make final decisions Tuesday on whether these events will proceed. Tilburg has already canceled its planned New Year’s Eve light show due to the weather.