Free fireworks display to celebrate 50th-anniversary city status

Robert Francis-Davies, the council’s cabinet member for investment, regeneration, and tourism, said: “This great sociable occasion will have a real wow factor in a safe, family-friendly environment – and we want everybody to have a great time as we continue to mark Swansea’s first 50 years as a city.

“Our annual fireworks event is Swansea’s biggest display and we expect a huge crowd so we urge all spectators to get there as early as they can.”

So how can you best enjoy the spectacular show?

When will it all be happening?

Tuesday, November 5, from 6-8 pm. Fireworks from 7 pm. Entertainment before and after the fireworks. The event will finish at 8 pm.

What’s going on?

The fireworks display – launched from the beach a couple of hundred yards from the Prom – will be the centerpiece.

In the run-up to the display, there’ll be fire shows on the beach. Before and after the fireworks, entertainment will include walkabout superheroes, stilt-walkers, fire-jugglers, and Glow-Bots.

Throughout the event, there’ll be plenty of food and drink choices including gourmet burgers, a traditional roast carvery, hog roast, hot dogs, wood-fired pizza, fish and chips and sweet treats including cakes, sweets, crepes, and doughnuts

Where will be the best places to see it?

The fireworks display will be visible around the bay and the best views for this will be on the Prom and the beach between the Civic Centre and the Cenotaph areas.

How should we get there? What will traffic and parking be like?

Traffic in the seafront and city centre areas is expected to be busy so those planning to attend are urged to travel early and to allow extra time.

One of Mumbles Road’s westbound lanes – the one closest to the Prom – will be closed between the Civic Centre and Brynmill Lane, from around 6-8 pm for pedestrian safety.

Event car parks will be open from 5 pm. Parking will cost £5 per vehicle – all pay on arrival. The car parks are Recreation Ground, Lacrosse Field, Civic Centre East and West, Guildhall Rotunda, St Helen’s Baths car park, Paxton Street car park. Parking will also be available at Sketty Lane and Singleton Boating Lake car parks, and the usual city centre car parks. Note that the Oystermouth Road car park next to the LC is now closed – and that the St David’s multi-storey over the road is open 24/7.

The event site is in a residential area so please park responsibly. Traffic enforcement officers will be present.

More info: enjoyswanseabay.com/swansea-fireworks-display-parking-and-travel

What about getting home afterward?

Due to a large number of vehicles likely to be leaving the area within a short space of time, traffic is expected to be heavy at the end of the event. Traffic will be held briefly on Oystermouth Road/Mumbles Road at that stage to enable spectators to cross the road safely.

Will the beach and the prom be cleaned up afterward?

Yes! There’ll be additional litter collection points around the Cenotaph and Civic Centre – and council litter collectors will clear up after the event and early the following morning. Spectators are asked to help keep the area clean by disposing of their litter responsibly – and preferably taking it home.

Why’s the show not on the rugby ground as usual?

Traditionally held at the St Helen’s ground, this year’s display is moving a short distance to the beach. This will be for one year only as part of the Swansea 50 celebrations.