And what if you went to Cannes to attend a fireworks display? But not just any display! Every summer, the city of Cannes hosts one of the most prestigious fireworks shows in the world in its bay during the Festival d’Art Pyrotechnique; every year, no less than 200,000 spectators enjoy the spectacle each night, lining up along the Croisette for over 400 meters.
In this article, we will detail what the festival is about and explore what makes it so special.
The significance of the Festival d’Art Pyrotechnique in Cannes
To understand the origins of the Festival d’Art Pyrotechnique in Cannes, we need to go back in time: it all started in 1967 when the Ruggieri company, along with the city of Cannes, organized an international competition among the most famous fireworks artists of the time on barges anchored in the bay of Cannes, near the Croisette and the Palais des Festivals de Cannes, all set to music and choreographed to a particular theme, much to the delight of locals and tourists.
Each summer, the Festival varies slightly depending on the performances of the fireworks artists and the musical theme. Technically, the fireworks are launched from the Mediterranean Sea, in the bay of Cannes, enhancing the magic of the show.
The best places in Cannes to watch the fireworks
There are several key spots to fully enjoy the Festival d’Art Pyrotechnique; first of all, it is visible from the entire seafront of Cannes, especially from the Croisette as the fireworks take place nearby. For those who want a higher vantage point for an overview, you can head to Le Suquet, which is the high ground of the city.
Another interesting idea: you can sit on the beach of the Palais des Festivals to wait for the fireworks to start and fully enjoy the show.
The schedule and participants for the 2024 festival
The goal is simple: to pit the best pyrotechnic artists from around the world against each other. Therefore, the organizers of the Festival d’Art Pyrotechnique de Cannes invite a company to represent their country: these companies come from France, Germany, Norway, the United States, and more. In short, countries from around the world have already participated in this major event.
The Cannes festival fireworks take place on six dates each edition (for the 2024 edition, the dates are July 4, 14, 22, and August 7, 15, and 24) around 10 p.m. Just before the festivities begin, loudspeakers on the private beach of the Majestic Barrière briefly explain to the spectators that the fireworks are about to start and which company is competing. Due to its international nature, spectators can enjoy the anthem of the country of the day. However, for the fireworks on July 14, it will obviously be the French anthem that is played.
During the fireworks, the music varies, ranging from classical music to pop hits, and lights are projected to add a theatrical dimension to the show.
The jury present consists of representatives from the cultural world. Each jury member’s mission is to evaluate the pyromusical shows according to several criteria, including the quality and originality of the fireworks, synchronization, and overall artistic impression.
Finally, the jury’s vote means rewards: this year, pyrotechnicians from around the world will compete to win the Silver Vestal, which rewards the most original fireworks artist.
Tips for making the most of the Festival d'Art Pyrotechnique
Due to the massive influx of visitors who want to see the fireworks, here are some tips to help you make the most of the event:
- Sainte-Marguerite Island: for a fare of 84 euros for the cruise, you can go to Sainte-Marguerite Island to experience a unique moment at sea.
- Enjoy the show from a boat: to see the Pyrotechnic Festival, you can rent a boat and head out to sea to get as much distance as possible and enjoy a panoramic view of various colors.
- Rooftops in Cannes: want to gain height and watch the fireworks while sipping a cocktail? Head to a hotel rooftop to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the event.
- Beaches: a must on the seafront, the beaches allow spectators to enjoy the fireworks with family and in a relaxed atmosphere. However, we recommend arriving earlier to find the ideal spot. Don’t forget to bring your picnic!
Complementary activities and events during the festival
The city of Cannes offers other activities not to be missed during the Festival d’Art Pyrotechnique: you can visit the Croisette district, an iconic promenade that runs along the bay of Cannes, and its luxurious shops that will delight tourists; moreover, due to its proximity to the Festival, you can go to the Palais des Festivals de Cannes, which is the very place where the mythical Cannes Film Festival takes place. Finally, you can also enjoy the different beaches along the Mediterranean Sea.
Don't miss the pyrotechnic magic in Cannes!
The Festival d’Art Pyrotechnique de Cannes is a colorful event that heralds a festive and friendly summer on the French Riviera. Do you want to see this fireworks display and enjoy a unique moment? Throughout the summer, Immosol offers rentals of all types to suit your desires, so don’t hesitate and come enjoy the show!
