As the festive season approaches, residents planning New Year celebrations in The Hague should be aware that the city will not grant exemptions for consumer fireworks for the 2026–2027 celebrations.
This is a reminder of Mayor Jan van Zanen’s decision announced on 9 October, rather than a new announcement. The Hague Online reported the decision at the time.
Read our original report on The Hague’s fireworks decision
The national consumer-fireworks ban took effect on 1 August 2026. Although the legislation provides a route for qualifying local associations and foundations to apply for exemptions, the mayor has chosen not to use it for the first New Year under the new rules.
Small category F1 items, such as sparklers and snap pops, remain outside the consumer-fireworks ban, according to the municipality’s October safety update. Professionally organised displays are a separate matter and require the appropriate permissions.
Do not assume that a traditional neighbourhood celebration includes an authorised fireworks display. Details of individual New Year events and any professional displays should be checked with the organiser closer to the date.
Read the national government’s announcement
Source: Gemeente Den Haag, 9 and 14 October; Rijksoverheid, 1 July 2026, press release/update dated 09/10/2026.
Photo: An October 2026 fireworks collection point at Regentesseplein. Valerie Kuypers / Gemeente Den Haag.