The Fireworks Festival in Panagyurishte Will Delight Guests with an International Light Show

On June 26, 27, and 28, the town of Panagyurishte will host the International Fireworks Festival, which will turn the sky above the town into a spectacle of light, color, and music. The event is part of the Municipal cultural program, which organizes concerts for each of the three evenings.

Among the performers who will warm up the audience are Tedi Kazarova, Dara Ekimova, and the rock band B.T.R. The background of the show will be staffed by the team from "Fire Chrysanthemum," who are responsible for the pyrotechnic displays. For the upcoming festival, which attracts people from all over Bulgaria and abroad every year, we speak with Ivan Ivanov, Neno Ivanov, and Anna Veleva.

• What new elements can visitors expect this year?

Neno Ivanov: We are expecting a more dynamic and different edition. The format remains the same with three competitive programs, in which teams from Romania, Estonia, and for the first time—China will participate. The theme is "What we bring is music," where each team must include music or a melody characteristic of their country. This will give the audience the chance to see different styles and experience the culture of the participants.

Including the Chinese team is especially significant, as China is known as the "home of fireworks." Representatives from one of the major pyrotechnic companies will participate for the first time in Panagyurishte.

• Where did the idea to create an international festival in the town originate?

Neno Ivanov: The idea emerged in 2006 after I saw an advertisement for the first edition of the Berlin championship "Pyronale." Later, in 2010, together with my father, we developed a specific project to hold the festival in Panagyurishte. After a meeting with Prof. Dr. Lychezar Tsoczorkov in 2012, the event received support and approval to evolve as an international event, thanks to cooperation with the Municipality and Bulgarian businesses.

• How has the festival changed over the years?

Neno Ivanov: It has evolved and developed significantly since its inception. Technologies have become more modern—the synchronization systems with music, the pyromusic software, and control systems are much more precise. This allows for creating much more impressive shows.

• Are there innovations in the industry?

Neno Ivanov: Development in the pyrotechnic industry includes the use of multimedia productions that combine light, music, stage effects, and even drone technologies, aimed at creating more complex and visionary shows. China is a global leader, and Europe has leading companies in Italy, Spain, Germany, and France.

• What is the effect of the festival on the region?

Ivan Ivanov: This festival revitalizes the entire region—it attracts thousands of visitors who support the development of hotels, restaurants, shops, and other facilities. Many accommodations are booked weeks in advance of the event, and guests return afterwards.

Anna Veleva: Events like this stimulate tourism and economic development. Local establishments operate at high capacity, and some guests book their stays months in advance.

• Is there good cooperation and support from the local business?

Neno Ivanov: Of course, support from local companies like "Asarel Medet" AD is essential. They provide funding for technical and logistical support, ensuring stability and an international profile for the festival. This fosters a sense of community and boosts the cultural development of the town.

• What is the future of the festival?

Neno Ivanov: The festival has its unique identity and is continuously evolving. Future plans include integrating new technologies like 3D mapping, laser effects, and drone show programs to make the performances even more unforgettable. All of this will take place at "April 20" square, demonstrating that Bulgaria can create world-class productions.

Source: travelnews.bg