Best Firework Displays to See on a Cruise
Fireworks are seen all over the world to celebrate anything from great communal occasions like New Year, to smaller, personal events such as birthdays and weddings. They are also widely used to mark historic anniversaries in a number of different countries. We take a look at some of the best firework displays across the globe which can be seen during a cruise!
Bastille Day, Paris
An important public holiday in France, Bastille Day – on July 14th – commemorates the beginning of the French Revolution in 1789. On this day, The Storming of The Bastille took place – when rebels attacked the state prison. It is seen as a pivotal event in the revolutionary process, and as such is celebrated each year with great gusto all over the country. The main event however, is largely considered to be the magnificent fireworks display which lights up the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Consider a cruise to France next July and be a part of this fantastic event.
Independence Day, New York
Another well-known occasion, during which fireworks dominate the sky, is the United States’ Independence Day - colloquially known as the Fourth of July. On this day in 1776, The Continental Congress decided upon the precise and final wording of the Declaration of Independence; and therefore the end of British control over the 13 colonies. Again, this date has become widely accepted as the birth of the USA, which is recognised and celebrated all over the country. Towns in every state put on firework displays on all different scales, but Macy’s in New York are renowned for their show in particular. Sit back on the deck of a ship on a cruise to New York and enjoy the spectacle of lights overhead.
Festa del Redentore, Venice
On the third weekend of July, Venetians celebrate the end of a terrible, epidemic plague which occurred in 1575 until 1577. The disaster was declared over on July 13th, an announcement that has been celebrated every year since. Festa del Redentore translates to the Feast of the Redeemer, a name which was chosen because of the Church of the Redeemer that was erected in hopes of saving the city from the plague. The Saturday night of the weekend sees all manner of people out and about, with a special focus on the grand finale of the evening – a majestic firework show which can last up to an hour. Take a cruise to Venice to witness this remarkable night.
Guy Fawkes Night, London
Of course the firework-focussed event we are all most familiar with is our own; the commemoration of Guy Fawkes’ attempt to blow up parliament on 5th November in 1605. The population of London actually began to recognise and celebrate this day in the very same year, by lighting bonfires to show support of their King who had been saved. Every year since, towns all over Britain acknowledge this historic night by burning the ‘guy’ on bonfires and putting on fireworks displays. There are some spectacular shows all over, however it is often thought that the best place to see them is in the location of the original event: London. Take a cruise from the UK to see some amazing fireworks at this time of year.
Cruise lines sometimes host their own celebrations, where fireworks are the main event, for example for special anniversaries. For example, back in 2015 Cunard put on a stunning show to commemorate their 175th anniversary:
In addition to these beautiful events, fireworks are seen in many other areas of the world. Why not consider seeing a display in Asia, where fireworks were created in the first place? Take a look at some of the most fantastic opportunities to see displays in Asia, with the best places to see in Chinese New Year, and even the magnificent fireworks festivals in Japan.