Birmingham’s biggest fireworks event has been scrapped and replaced with a “more sustainable” show.

Edgbaston’s autumn firework display has been hugely popular for the past 10 years. But now organizers have scrapped the fireworks to make way for a “more sustainable” drone event.

More than 600 drones are set to light up the city’s skies as part of – the first display of its kind to be unveiled in Birmingham. A similar event was held at Wolverhampton Racecourse last year, with great enthusiasm from those in attendance.

The 2024 show will be a narrative story, starting with the Big Bang and the explosive birth of the universe, which then follows the course of time to the present day. It is one of five Evolution events hosted at the cricket grounds this year.

Read more:

Read more: Boots shoppers praise ‘unbeatable’ liquid eyeliner that even beginners can use

Edgbaston events manager Ella Hogan said: “We know our fireworks event has been hugely popular over the years, but we felt it was time for a change and to look at an alternative, more sustainable option – but which it still has the wow factor. Drones create stunning animation in the night sky, with each flight path pre-programmed and mapped. I saw one of the events last year and it really is something very special to be a part of.

“The display is obviously more sustainable than a large firework display and there will be no noise pollution, loud bangs or fireworks debris issues which we know have concerned some of our nearby neighbours. I’m delighted to be bringing the Evolution show to Edgbaston and I’m sure it will be an amazing occasion for families and people of all ages to enjoy.”

The event was designed by Celestial, who create drone light shows for brands across the globe, and will take place on Saturday 26 October. Doors open at 5.30pm with food and drink outlets serving refreshments while a live DJ plays before the show begins. at 19.30.

This immersive show will feature 620 drones, each equipped with changeable, colorful LED lights, taking the audience on a “fascinating journey through time and space.”

How to get tickets to the Evolution Drone Show at Edgbaston Stadium

Early bird tickets are on offer for £20 per adult and £15 for children and discounts between now and July 19 via the Yuup website. Full price tickets after 19 July are £26 per adult and £21 for children and concessions.

John Hopkins, co-founder of Celestial, said: “The evolution took four years. This is much more than a drone light show, it’s a stadium-scale experience to tell the story of time. The 2024 season includes performances at five cricket grounds in the county. We found the open bowl design of the cricket grounds with the drone display in the night sky to be the perfect setting and really make it come to life.”

And Yuup founder Dominic Mills added: “We’re really excited to be working with Celestial to bring this unique show to Birmingham and on such an epic scale. Our shows have now been seen by 60,000 people and the show is now bigger and better with more drones and a longer show time than our early productions.”