The 2025 National Fireworks Festival has been hailed a resounding national success, drawing thousands of Jamaicans across five locations — Kingston, Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, Black River, and Negril — in an atmosphere of joy, unity and celebration, as they welcome the new year.

The annual festival, proudly coordinated by the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) in collaboration with key public and private sector partners, once again delivered a world-class firework display that captivated families, visitors and communities alike.

From early evening, venues were filled with excitement as patrons enjoyed musical selections, family-friendly activities, and a vibrant festive ambience, culminating in breath-taking midnight fireworks displays.

Chairman of the UDC Norman Brown described the festival as a powerful demonstration of national togetherness and resilience.

“The Fireworks Festival 2025 stands as a shining example of how public spaces can be transformed into places of joy, pride, and shared experience. Seeing thousands of Jamaicans come out peacefully to celebrate reminds us why these initiatives are so important; they uplift communities, while strengthening social bonds and give a sense of hope and confidence in our collective future,” Brown said.

General Manager of the UDC Bobby Honeyghan credited the success of the festival to careful planning, strong partnerships and the overwhelming support of the public.

“This year’s fireworks festival exceeded expectations. The turnout was exceptional, the execution was seamless, and the response from the public has been overwhelmingly positive. I commend our partners, the security forces, emergency services and the UDC team for working tirelessly to ensure a safe, enjoyable and memorable experience for all,” Honeyghan noted.

In addition to entertaining and lifting the spirit of Jamaicans, the festival delivered meaningful economic and social benefits, providing opportunities for small vendors, entertainers and service providers, while reinforcing the role of public spaces as hubs for community engagement and cultural expression.

Looking ahead to 2026, the UDC has signalled an ambitious and transformative programme of work, with major focus areas including the Raintree Commercial Complex, continued upgrades under the Kingston Waterfront Improvement Project, the advancement of the Portmore Resilience Park, further development in the Caymanas area, and the enhancement of the Dunn’s River Falls and Park.