Fireworks in Groningen — Sales and Restrictions for New Year's Eve 2025

As the end of the year approaches, Groningen gears up for New Year’s Eve with fireworks sales and clear guidelines on where fireworks can and cannot be set off. Here’s everything you need to know about fireworks sales, safety zones, and festivities in the city.

Fireworks sales in Groningen are in full swing, with retailers reporting high demand as residents prepare to ring in the new year. Sales officially began on Saturday and continue until December 31, but many customers have already placed orders online to ensure they don’t miss out. Popular items include compound boxes, which are safer and more vibrant than traditional firecrackers or rockets, now banned since 2020.

Retailers must adhere to strict safety protocols, including storing fireworks in fire-resistant bunkers and providing customers with safety glasses, fuses, and instructions. "Safety is our top priority," says Calvin van Hoek, owner of Voordelig Vuurwerk Groningen, who notes that many customers appreciate these measures despite a few complaints.

Some residents opt for a day trip to Germany to purchase fireworks, but stricter border checks have deterred many this year. “It’s less risky to buy fireworks locally,” says a local retailer.

To minimise nuisance and ensure safety for people, animals, and property, the municipality has designated 12 fireworks-free zones for New Year’s Eve. Fireworks are prohibited in these areas: (or see the map here)

Fireworks are permitted outside these zones from 6:00 PM on December 31 to 2:00 AM on January 1. Carbide shooting, a traditional Dutch activity, is allowed only outside built-up areas from 10:00 AM on December 31 to 2:00 AM on January 1, subject to specific rules.