Spectacle goes stateside! Malta’s Fireworks Festival dazzles almost 33 million viewers across the US
The Malta International Fireworks Festival has always been a highlight on the local cultural calendar, but this year, it made waves far beyond our shores. Thanks to a major live-streaming initiative by the Malta Tourism Authority, the festival's grand finale on 30th April at Valletta’s Grand Harbour was broadcast across the United States, reaching an impressive 33 million American viewers.
As part of ongoing efforts to position Malta as a fantastic tourist destination, the event was hosted by US TV personality Gabe Saglie and aired on several major American networks, including NBC, CBS, ABC and FOX News. The campaign brought Malta’s unique explosive artistry into the homes of millions, offering viewers a taste of one of the island’s favourite traditions.
This year’s edition of the festival featured more than 85 local and international pyrotechnic teams, delivering stunning displays across several Maltese venues in the days leading up to the finale. The show combined traditional fireworks with the newest technology – including the first ever fireworks set off by drones in Europe – keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.
At the heart of the festival was the prestigious Pyrotechnical Musical Competition, which saw Għaqda Piroteknika 10 ta’ Awwissu from Birgu crowned overall winner. Nakaja Art (Poland) and Foti Fireworks (Italy) secured second and third places respectively, with top teams from France, the UK, and Mexico rounding out the global line-up.
Last year’s winners, Għaqda tan-Nar Kerċem, also made a memorable return, while the finale introduced a surprise element that merged fireworks with immersive visual technology – a nod to the festival’s evolving innovation.
The streaming of the festival not only celebrated Malta’s craftsmanship in fireworks but also showed audiences that Malta isn’t just a summer destination – one can experience the sun’s warmth and awe from fireworks lighting the skies throughout the year!
Did you watch the fireworks spectacle?