Will There Be New Year’s Fireworks in Moscow in 2026?

New Year’s fireworks in Moscow have traditionally been considered one of the main symbols of the holiday. However, in recent years the capital has been revising the format of New Year celebrations, abandoning large-scale pyrotechnic shows. Let’s examine what awaits festive fireworks in 2026 and what has changed in the celebration of the main night of the year.

History of New Year’s Fireworks in the Russian Capital

The tradition of launching fireworks in Russia has deep historical roots. The first “amusement fires” appeared in the country as early as 1389, when they were brought as a gift to Prince Dmitry Donskoy. However, it was Peter the Great who turned fireworks into an integral part of New Year celebrations.

The Petrine Era and the Birth of the Tradition

The reformist tsar Peter the Great, known for his love of European innovations, ordered the launch of the first official New Year’s fireworks on January 1, 1700. Since then, fireworks have become a symbol not only of military victories but also of peaceful celebrations. Over three centuries, the tradition strengthened, turning pyrotechnic shows into a mandatory element of the New Year program.

Fireworks in Modern Moscow

Until recently, New Year’s fireworks in Moscow were held on a grand scale. The main salvos traditionally thundered exactly at midnight over Red Square and the Moskvoretskaya Embankment. In other districts of the capital, pyrotechnic shows began at 01:00 — at the moment the New Year arrived across the entire territory of Russia, from Kamchatka to Kaliningrad. The scale of the celebration was impressive: fireworks were launched from 26 sites in all districts of Moscow, and the duration of the fireworks display was 4 minutes. Popular locations included the Hermitage Garden, Gorky Park, Izmailovsky Park, Sokolniki, and VDNH.

New Year 2026: Will There Be Fireworks in Moscow?

The situation with festive fireworks has changed radically in recent years. Since 2022, Moscow authorities have regularly refused to launch official pyrotechnics. The mayor of the capital, Sergey Sobyanin, announced that on December 31, 2025, and January 1, 2026, large-scale fireworks in the city will not be held.

Alternative Sites for Private Fireworks

Despite the absence of official fireworks, Muscovites are allowed to launch their own pyrotechnics at specially designated sites. Among the permitted locations are: Bolotnaya Square — one of the central points for launching private fireworks. Taras Shevchenko Embankment opposite Moscow City and the building of the Government of the Russian Federation, offering an impressive view of the business district’s skyscrapers. Donskaya Square near the Donskoy Monastery — a historic place with a special atmosphere. Other permitted sites are located outside the Third Transport Ring, which helps minimize disturbance to residents of central districts and reduce risks to historic development.

Russians’ Attitude Toward New Year’s Fireworks

Public opinion regarding festive pyrotechnics is divided. According to surveys, 43% of Russians have a positive attitude toward fireworks, yet a significant portion of the population speaks out against noisy displays.

Arguments of Supporters and Opponents

For 28% of citizens, fireworks remain an integral part of the holiday, creating a special sense of celebration. Another 24% value fireworks as a beautiful tradition that delights both children and adults. For 19% of respondents, the smell of pine needles and the atmosphere of a live celebration are especially dear. However, 29% of Russians are categorically against launching fireworks, and 28% are indifferent to them. Among the main complaints: fireworks scare pets and small children (15%), are a pointless waste of money (10%), and pose a danger (8%).

Changes in Holiday Budgets

Economic factors also influence the popularity of fireworks. Among those who plan to launch pyrotechnics, 26% are ready to spend from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles, and 16% — from 3,000 to 5,000 rubles. At the same time, almost half of respondents (46%) do not plan to launch fireworks at all. The overall trend shows that 32% of Russians intend to save on New Year expenses, and another 26% will reduce spending “slightly.” The holiday is becoming more mindful and less costly, which is also reflected in attitudes toward fireworks.

The Situation in Other Regions of Russia

Moscow is not alone in deciding to отказаться from official fireworks. 64 regions of Russia announced the cancellation of mass fireworks on New Year’s Eve 2025–2026. Among them are the country’s largest cities.

Saint Petersburg

The northern capital allowed the launch of small fireworks from 23:00 to 04:00 on New Year’s night at only one site — in the Garden on the Neva at Smolnaya Embankment. The city’s Legislative Assembly is considering an initiative to extend the permitted period by one hour, starting at 22:00.

Kazan

In the capital of Tatarstan, a special fire safety regime is in effect from December 25, 2025, to January 11, 2026. There will be no citywide fireworks, and only four sites outside the city center have been allocated for private events.

Resort Cities

Sochi has also refused official pyrotechnic shows. Hotels, sanatoriums, and resort complexes are recommended to create a festive atmosphere through alternative means — light installations, concerts, and other events.

Regions with a Complete Ban

In 14 regions of Russia, a categorical ban on the use of any pyrotechnics has been introduced. Among them are Sevastopol, Kalmykia, and Rostov Oblast. In Crimea, the fine for setting off firecrackers for a private individual is 50,000 rubles, and for legal entities — up to 1 million rubles.

The Only Exception

Chukotka remains the only region where official city fireworks are planned. However, their implementation depends on weather conditions and may be canceled.

A New Celebration Format

The refusal of large-scale fireworks does not mean canceling the holiday. Cities are transitioning to a calmer and more mindful format of welcoming the New Year. Instead of noisy fireworks, the following are used: Light installations and video mapping — modern technologies make it possible to create captivating light shows on building facades without the use of pyrotechnics. Concert programs — musical performances, theatrical shows, and cultural events are becoming the center of the celebration. Family-oriented events — the emphasis shifts to intimate celebrations with loved ones, in line with global trends toward mindful consumption. This approach helps preserve the festive atmosphere while minimizing negative impacts on the environment, pets, and people sensitive to loud sounds.

Practical Tips for Those Who Want to Celebrate the New Year with Fireworks

If you still plan to launch your own pyrotechnics, it is important to follow safety rules and current restrictions: Use only permitted sites — launching fireworks in unauthorized places can result in fines and pose danger to others. Buy certified pyrotechnics — purchase products only from specialized stores with the required documentation. Follow safety instructions — carefully read the usage rules for each product and keep a fire extinguisher or water nearby. Consider the interests of others — warn neighbors about the planned launch and make sure there are no pets or small children nearby who could be frightened. Control your budget — remember that the main thing in the holiday is not the scale of the fireworks, but the atmosphere and the time spent with loved ones. New Year traditions evolve along with society. Moscow’s and most Russian regions’ refusal of large-scale fireworks reflects a shift in priorities — from ostentatious splendor to mindful celebration. The arrival of 2026 will take place in a calmer format, which will not prevent the creation of true magic on the main night of the year.