Ashikaga Fireworks 110th Anniversary Showcases Drone Display and Funding Plans

The 110th edition of the Ashikaga Fireworks Festival, celebrated on August 1, 2026 at Watarase Sports Park, will feature a special 15‑minute drone show produced by Redcliff Inc. The performance will use 500 drones and includes three themed segments: an animation honoring the upcoming Spider‑Man: Brand New Day film, a collaboration with idol group M!LK, and a large QR‑code projection linked to the peace‑focused N4 Project.

The festival, which began in 1903 and draws half a million visitors each year, faces rising costs for fireworks, installation and staffing. Organisers report a budget of ¥12.2 billion for this year, nearly double the post‑COVID figure in 2022. To sustain the event, they have employed crowdfunding—meeting a ¥500,000 target in the first year and ¥2 million in the second—while also introducing paid online ticket sales, AI‑driven phone support, and cooling tents to manage expenses and improve visitor experience.

These initiatives aim to preserve the long‑standing regional tradition while integrating new technology and revenue models to ensure the festival’s future viability.