Have you considered alternatives to firework displays?
If you're planning on letting off fireworks in your garden or at a public display, read our low noise fireworks alternatives guide for animal-friendly options that are quieter, less frightening and equally as spectacular.
As animals have incredibly sensitive hearing, fireworks can cause stress, injury and even death. Fireworks don’t just startle or scare animals; sometimes they cause severe damage to their mental and physical well-being. From emotional distress to actual pain and suffering, traditionally loud, often explosive-sounding fireworks may only be an evening long, but the effects can be lasting.
The desire for quiet fireworks and alternatives is growing. Over 90% of Brits want alternatives to fireworks – things like lasers, drones, or silent/quiet fireworks. These alternatives are available for both public and private displays.
Though there are no truly silent fireworks, these low noise alternatives can reduce the impact and fear felt by both people and animals that traditional fireworks often cause. If you’re planning a display, explore these options to celebrate safely and respectfully.
Fireworks are no longer the only sought after option. Over 60% of people think fireworks alternatives would be just as fun to watch as traditional fireworks – rising to 66% for those who have actually attended displays with alternatives used.
While these alternatives can still have a negative impact on animals – drones aren’t totally silent and laser and light shows still cause bright flashes – on balance, they are better for animal welfare than traditional fireworks.
Drone displays
Drones are the most commonly used alternative to fireworks. In these displays, illuminated drones swoop and swarm in the night sky to make mesmerising patterns and images.
Practically anything is possible with drones – they’re a way to let your imagination run wild without the worry of your pet’s welfare weighing on your mind. Though they’re not 100% silent, they’re a much quieter and less frightening way of celebrating – however, organisers of drone displays will still need to consider their location, so they don’t negatively impact animal wellbeing.
Light shows
Laser and light shows are also popular alternatives. The experience is similar to a fireworks display, with a dedicated viewing area set up as the lasers or LEDs light up the sky in an array of enchanting patterns. Though these light shows can still create bright flashes that might startle animals, they’re a much safer alternative to the loud bangs and jump scares of fireworks.
Silent Fireworks
There are no truly silent fireworks because all fireworks make some noise, but there are "low-noise" or "silent" fireworks that are much quieter. These fireworks are designed to eliminate loud bangs by reducing or removing the explosive charges that cause them, creating a more visual and less auditory experience. They are a great alternative for people with noise-sensitive pets, for events in built-up areas, or for late-night displays.