FAQs

The information below is for British Firework Championships 2024. Details about British Firework Championships 2025 will be coming soon.

Heading to this year's British Firework Championships on Plymouth Hoe? If you've got any queries heading into the event, check out some of the frequently asked questions below which may be able to assist you.

When and where is it? 

The British Firework Championships, in partnership with Associated British Ports, will take place on Plymouth Hoe on Wednesday 14 August and Thursday 15 August.  

What time are the fireworks on? 

Three firework companies will compete each day at 9.30pm, 9.50pm and 10.10pm. Find out more about the companies that are taking part this year. 

Will the fireworks go ahead in the rain?

Unless announced, the fireworks on Thursday 15 August are still set to go ahead despite the forecasted rain. It's advised visitors dress appropriately for the forecasted conditions.

Is there any other entertainment?  

There is plenty of entertainment lined up so you can enjoy a full evening of fun at the British Firework Championships. Live music starts at 5pm on both evenings, and there will be stiltwalkers and fire performers around the venue in the build-up to the main event!

Check out the full entertainment schedule. 

Do I have to buy a ticket to watch the fireworks?  

No. The British Firework Championships on Plymouth Hoe are free to watch. However, food and fairground outlets will incur various charges. 

Can I watch online? 

Yes. If you can't make it to this year's event you won't miss out as we will be live streaming both nights of the competition on both YouTube and Facebook. Check out the ways to watch this year's displays.  

Is there food and drink on site? 

There are a wide variety of food and drink vendors on Plymouth Hoe that will be open from 2pm onwards. 

Can I fly a drone at the event? 

No. There is a strict no-fly zone in place at the British Firework Championships. The zone is in place with The Civil Aviation Authority between 3pm and 11pm on each day beginning on 14 August 2024 and ending on 15 August 2024. Check out the no-fly zone map. 

Can I bring my dog(s)? 

As the event is on public space there are no restrictions, however we do advise due to the loud noises throughout the event to not bring dogs who may be scared of the noise.

Where can I park? 

There are over 50 car parks and more than 5,200 parking spaces in Plymouth and plenty of street parking. 19 of these car parks are situated in and around the city centre, varying from short term and long term stays. There are spaces in each car park for disabled badge holders. Standard charges apply. Other options include Drake Circus and the Barcode with over 1,600 parking spaces available. 

Are there road closures in place? 

Various road closures are in place during the event. Read up on what road closures are in place and when for this year's championships, and also check out the road closure map for further information. 

What park-and-ride services are in place?  

Various park and ride services are in place for both days of the British Firework Championships. Additional Park and Ride services will be put on after the event finishes, both services 100 and 300 will depart from stop number A8 on Royal Parade. 

Please be aware that on Wednesday 14 August (only), there are multiple events taking place in Plymouth, including a Plymouth Argyle Football Club match and Live in the Park in Central Park. As such, the Milehouse Park & Ride is expected to be very busy and the car park is likely to be full by the early afternoon. The Park and Ride service from Royal Parade will still be operating but the Milehouse car park will be on a first-come, first-served and will be very busy. 

Find out the full park and ride times, and other recommended ways to head to the event on our travel information page. 

Can I watch from the water?  

Yes, however be aware there is a water exclusion notice in place for the event. This area must be kept clear between 9pm and 10.40pm to provide access for emergency vessels. Visit the water safety page to see the full water exclusion area as well as further guidance for being safe on the water. 

When will the winning team be announced? 

The winning team for the British Firework Championships will be crowned at the awards ceremony after the fireworks have finished on Thursday 15 August. The Young People's Choice Award, which has been sponsored by Plymouth Citybus, will also be awarded then. 

What measures are in place for accessible needs? 

Measures have been taken to ensure the event is easily-accessible.  

There are accessible toilets at both ends of the Hoe. The Hoe’s new permanent public toilets include six unisex toilets, with one additional accessible toilet and a large, code operated accessible changing places cubicle. This means the new facilities can be used safely and comfortably by all people with disabilities. 

Blue Badge Parking will be available on The Hoe, with spaces available on a first-come-first-serve basis. Access will be via Elliott Street entrance to the Hoe promenade from 5.30pm. 

There are two accessible viewing points to catch the action, both on a first-come, first-serve basis and once again BSL interpreters on the main stage. They will be present from 6pm each evening, covering all aspects of the entertainment programme from the bands to the firework commentary. 

Find out more access information for this year’s event. 

What else should I bring? 

If you’re planning to come up this year come equipped. There’s no seating on The Hoe, so picnic blankets and camping chairs are advised. By the time the fireworks begin it can be chilly so be sure to dress appropriately and bring layers. Ensure you dispose of waste at any of the on-site bins.