The Netherlands Likely To Ban Fireworks In 2026 As Shoppers Rush For One Last Bang

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Fireworks are about to disappear from public celebrations in the Netherlands, and people are making sure they go out with a bang

With a nationwide ban on consumer fireworks likely taking effect in 2026, the country has seen a surge in last-minute purchases as the final legal sales period begins.

According to Dutch News, shops that opened at midnight were immediately met with long queues, as buyers rushed to stock up for one last New Year's hurrah.

Some buyers even crossed the border into Germany, where stores in Emmerich saw waits of over an hour. While Dutch law limits fireworks purchases abroad to 25kg per person, some shoppers admitted they were heading home with what they described as "a car load".

According to traders, orders had already surged earlier this month compared with previous years, all thanks to the looming ban

Turnover for this final season is expected to exceed last year's 118 million euros (RM560 million), making it one of the biggest fireworks sales periods on record, according to Euro News.

The nationwide prohibition is now almost certain after the Dutch senate approved the measure earlier this year.

While private consumer fireworks will be banned, professional firework shows will still be allowed next year, though only with a permit.

Details such as enforcement, policing, and compensation for affected traders will be left to the next cabinet.

The fireworks ban didn't come out of nowhere

For years, emergency services, local councils, and politicians have been calling for an end to consumer fireworks sales, citing serious safety concerns.

Every New Year's Eve, celebrations across the country have resulted in severe injuries, including lost limbs and eyesight, alongside millions of euros in property damage.

Police have already intercepted more than 104 tonnes of fireworks so far this year, most of which were illegal. Authorities say that number could still rival or surpass last year's total of 107 tonnes.

There's also a growing concern about powerful fireworks being repurposed as explosives in criminal activities, prompting the Netherlands to call for a Europe-wide ban on high-grade fireworks.

Beyond human safety, animal welfare has been a major driver behind the ban

Animal rights groups and veterinarians have long warned about the trauma fireworks cause, from pets trembling in fear to wildlife suffering injuries or worse due to loud, sudden explosions.

Lawmakers have framed the move as a necessary shift towards more compassionate, humane celebrations.