Since its inauguration in 1966 to celebrate the nation’s centenary, the Monte-Carlo International Fireworks Festival has drawn crowds from across the continent.
Widely regarded as one of the best free fireworks events in Europe, each year differing nationalities compete to win the title of ‘fireworks kings’ by displaying a sumptuous feast of pyrotechnics, carefully choreographed alongside a beautifully orchestrated score.
This year Switzerland, Belgium, Italy and Slovakia will be battling it out for the €10,000 prize pot, with the runners-up awarded a, not to be sniffed at, consolation of €5,000.
Fireworks will be launched over Port Hercule, with spectators recommended to head to Avenue d’Ostende or Quai Albert 1er to get the best views.
All displays will last for around 20 minutes, with the winners set to be decided by a judging panel comprising representatives from Monaco’s Municipal Council, alongside members of the arts and civilian world.
Mere mortals like ourselves can also have a say in proceedings, with a secondary vote conducted via the internet.
England have won three of the last five competitions, but will not be in attendance in 2015.
Friday 3 July at 22:00: Switzerland
Created by brothers Jean-Pascal and Nicolas Guinand, the award-winning SUGYP SA will provide Switzerland’s entry. With the score featuring an eclectic mixture of songs ranging from the Beatles to Celine Dion, this will certainly be one display worth catching.
Saturday 18 July at 22:00: Belgium
Commencing with a track from the Wallace and Gromit film ‘A Grand Day Out’, Belgium’s entry intriguingly promises to take spectators on a journey of emotions.
Saturday 1 August at 21:30: Italy
If 80s soft rock is your thing, be sure not to miss Italy’s display this summer. Monaco’s neighbours will be offering up a stunning series of pyrotechnics accompanied by tunes from Queen, Bonnie Tyler and Simple Minds.
Saturday 8 August at 21:30: Slovakia
The final country to display their wares at this year’s festival is Slovakia. The eastern European nation will use a variety of Italian and Chinese fireworks, set to a series of tracks created by famous Slovak composer and musician, Oskar Rózsa.
More information
Espace Léo Ferré
25-29 avenue Albert II
98000 MONACO
Tel: (+377) 93 10 12 10