Tomorrowland will not be allowed to launch fireworks or other pyrotechnics during its first weekend of the 2026 edition. The decision has been taken and communicated by the mayors of Boom and Rumst, together with Provincial Governor Cathy Berx, on the advice of the fire department.

The decision follows a period of extremely hot weather in Boom and Rumst, which has caused drought conditions around the festival site.

Explaining the ban, mayor of Rumst, Jurgen Callaerts says: “It is too dry in the area. Code orange is in effect until Tuesday.” The dry conditions pose a high risk of wildfires at the festival and there was reportedly little disagreement among the authorities involved in the decision.

“There was actually little discussion during the meeting with the security services, the fire department, and the governor,” mentions Callaerts. “They will not change the decision in the next 48 hours either.”

Tomorrowland disappointed by fireworks ban and lack of consultation

The ban is a significant setback for Tomorrowland’s first weekend, as the festival had already been prohibited from using pyrotechnic equipment away from the stages. Tomorrowland spokesperson, Debby Wilmsen expressed disappointment regarding the decision, saying that fireworks are an important part of the spectacle and difficult to replace with something as magical.

“Drones as an alternative is definitely not an option. We are too close to the airport for that,” Wilmsen says, ruling out an alternative similar to the one used at Tomorrowland Brasil.

Adding to the tension, Tomorrowland’s organisers said there had been no consultation between them and the authorities, finding it disappointing to learn about the decision through the media. Jurgen Callaerts however, denies the allegation, saying the organisation was informed immediately after the final decision.

While the fireworks ban only affects the first weekend of the event as of now, authorities stated that measures for weekend two will also be taken later. They have said these are the only right measures they could take at this moment.

Ultimately, there will be a final meeting with all security services on Thursday morning, the day before Tomorrowland opens its gates to over 200.000 festivalgoers.