Fireworks may be part of some Christmas traditions, but what does Georgia's law say about it?

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Published  December 24, 2024 8:00pm EST
FOX 5 Atlanta

 A Christmas Eve fireworks display light up the Victoria Harbour on December 24, 2024 in Hong Kong, China. (Photo by VCG/VCG via Getty Images)

The Brief

    • Fireworks have become an integral part of Christmas Eve celebrations in countries like the Philippines, Mexico, and parts of Europe, blending tradition with festivity.
    • In the Philippines, fireworks mark the end of the Simbang Gabi novena, with families gathering to watch and participate in the displays.
    • Mexico incorporates fireworks into the final posadas on Christmas Eve, with cities like Puebla and Oaxaca featuring vibrant pyrotechnic shows.
    • In Europe, cities like Valencia, Spain, are known for their elaborate Christmas Eve fireworks, combining traditional music with intricate designs.
    • Georgia enforces strict firework regulations, allowing their use only on specific holidays and urging residents to consider the impact on neighbors, pets, and individuals with PTSD.

ATLANTA - Fireworks illuminated the night skies across the globe on Christmas Eve, blending tradition with festivity in many regions. While more commonly associated with New Year’s Eve, pyrotechnic displays have become an integral part of Christmas celebrations in countries such as the Philippines, Mexico, and parts of Europe.

Christmas fireworks around the world

In the Philippines, fireworks marked the culmination of the nine-day Simbang Gabi novena, a series of early-morning Masses leading up to Christmas Day. Families gathered outdoors to watch the spectacular displays and often participated by lighting sparklers and small fireworks themselves.

Mexico’s Christmas Eve traditions also included dazzling fireworks as part of the final posadas—processions reenacting Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. Cities such as Puebla and Oaxaca featured vibrant shows of rockets and multicolored flares, filling the night sky with brilliant colors.

In Europe, localized Christmas Eve fireworks added to the festive atmosphere. Valencia, Spain, renowned for its pyrotechnic artistry, showcased a choreographed display that combined traditional Christmas music with intricate firework designs, delighting spectators.

Georgia firework laws

While fireworks are a global tradition for Christmas and New Year’s, Georgia imposes strict regulations on their use. State law permits the use of consumer fireworks only until 11:59 p.m. on designated holidays, including New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are not included in these exemptions.

Outside the specified holidays, fireworks are allowed from 10 a.m. to 11:59 p.m., provided they do not violate local noise ordinances. Additionally, fireworks are prohibited in parks, public roads, highways, and railroads without proper permits. Residents are urged to consider neighbors who may be adversely affected by the noise, including those with pets or sensitivities.

Metro Atlanta area law enforcement acknowledges the balance between celebration and consideration, especially for those who value the solemnity of the night. Additionally, fireworks can be distressing for individuals with PTSD, such as veterans, and can negatively impact pets, making it essential for celebrants to be mindful of others during the holiday season.

As the world celebrates the season in diverse ways, respecting both traditions and regulations remains at the forefront of holiday festivities.

The Source: This article sources from Georgia laws and previous FOX 5 Atlanta reports.