Illumination in the night sky

Interesting summer fireworks festivals around the world

Although the 4th of July fireworks celebration is over in the US, there are plenty of summer fireworks and festivals to enjoy in other parts of the world, including Japan, Germany, and Canada.

Watching the fireworks in Japan

One of the highlights of planning a trip to Japan in the summer is to see the beautiful lit night sky during one of the "Hanabi Taikai" (or firework festivals) held throughout Japan during the months of July and August, including the famous fireworks seen in Tokyo and Hiroshima.

Sumida River Fireworks Festival

Planning a trip to Tokyo in late July? Then you're in luck! Don't miss the opportunity to see one of Tokyo's historical summer event, the Sumida River Fireworks Festival. Historically and formerly known as the Ryogoku Kawabiraki, the fireworks along the Sumida River dates back to the late Edo Period (around 1733). Although the event has been suspending for some years to follow, from 1978 onwards, it has been held annually, with over 20,000 fireworks illuminating the Tokyo city skyline every summer.

Miyajima Fireworks Festival

One of the most popular and breathtaking firework display, the Miyajima Fireworks Festival, will take place in Hiroshima prefecture, in late August. A "must-take" event for any photography hobbyist or enthusiast with over 5,000 fireworks lighting up the night sky and the surface of the shore along the world famous Itsukushima Shrine. Whether viewing the fireworks from Miyajima or from the opposite shore of the city of Hatsukaichi, this breathtaking event of colorful illumination is not to be missed!

Interesting fact:

The significance of chanting "Tamaya" and "Kagiya" in Japan

While watching the fireworks in Japan, you might notice some people around you chanting, "Tamaya~!" or "Kagiya~!", but what do they mean?

Watching the fireworks in Germany

Rhine in Flames (Rhein in Flammen)

Not just the fireworks, but come enjoy Europe's biggest river boat parade of illuminated ships and illumination along the Rhine River in Germany. Rhine in Flames is held during five summer weekends at five different locations, starting from May, July, August, then two in Septemeber. Each event is unique with amazing fireworks lighting up the night sky. The festival held during the second Saturday in August in Koblenz is considered the biggest out of them all.

Watching the fireworks in Canada

Celebration of Light

One of Vancouver's largest summer festival, the Celebration of Light is a musical fireworks competition between three countries, held over the English Bay for three nights. Also, don't miss Les Grands Feux Loto-Québec (Fireworks Festival) that attracts over 3 million spectators over six summer nighs to Quebec, as well as the firework displays at the famous Niagara Falls which is held every night in early-September.

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