The ongoing rise of drone shows can be observed across various events and celebrations, marking a significant evolution in entertainment technology. Once a novelty, these aerial spectacles have made their way into the fabric of public and personal gatherings, appearing at weddings, concerts, corporate events, and even birthday parties. A compelling example comes from a New Year’s Eve wedding in New York State, where newlyweds Bobby and Siobhan Underwood experienced a surprise drone show that left them and their guests in awe.
During this wedding event, as Bobby stepped on a napkin-covered glass—a symbol of the Jewish tradition of breaking a glass—he and Siobhan were greeted by an extraordinary display above them. This aerial performance showcased between 100 and 150 drones that were programmed to light up the night sky with colorful patterns, creating images meant to resonate with the couple’s unique interests. For instance, a baseball player hitting a ball was featured, which held significance for Bobby, a passionate baseball enthusiast. The display was not only visually stunning but also emotionally powerful, leading Mrs. Underwood to describe the moment as “remarkable” and “overwhelming.”
The arrangement of the drone show was thoughtfully orchestrated by Mrs. Underwood’s mother, in collaboration with the couple’s wedding planner. This thoughtful addition to their wedding underscored the growing trend of incorporating drone performances into personal celebrations. It points to the popularity of drone shows, which have become increasingly common in various entertainment domains, including major festivals like Glastonbury, where the first drone show took place in 2024.
Moreover, record-breaking drone shows are emerging globally. One such event occurred in China last October, where a staggering 10,200 drones participated in a single display, setting a new benchmark in the industry. As technology progresses, the experiences these drone shows provide are becoming more detailed and artistic. Sally French, a prominent commentary figure in the drone industry, notes that these performances are not just about flying drones; they are a new art form. With capabilities to synchronize movements exquisitely with music, the shows offer a rewarding combination of sight and sound, captivating audiences worldwide.
Despite their breathtaking impact, drone shows come with financial considerations. The average cost for a drone in the UK hovers around $300 (£220). For a comprehensive display involving 500 drones, expenses can exceed $150,000. While the Underwood wedding drone show’s exact cost remains unspecified, it was suggested that it ran into tens of thousands. Acknowledging cost barriers, Mr. Patrick O’Mahony, co-founder of Skymagic, a leading drone show company, shares insights on the logistics of such displays. Skymagic has facilitated performances at events like the 2023 Coachella music festival and even the King’s Coronation concert broadcast by the BBC.
O’Mahony’s company utilizes custom-designed drones that achieve considerable speeds and possess extended flight times. With a fleet of around 6,000 drones, he highlights how the technology allows for spectacular performances previously unthinkable with traditional fireworks. Drones can be controlled using GPS, ensuring that they fly within designated zones and return automatically if blown off course.
Critically, while drones may lack the innate “boom” factor associated with fireworks displays, they are earning recognition for their precision and synchronization capabilities. Analysts, like Bill Ray from Gartner, indicate that some modern drones can even release pyrotechnics, echoing the atmospheric engagement of fireworks. Emirates-based executive Pedro Rosário underscores that with creative liberty, drone shows can merge storytelling elements with visual artistry and can be adapted to various regulatory environments globally.
As Mrs. Underwood reflects on her wedding guests’ admiration for the drone performance, this sentiment encapsulates a broader cultural shift towards innovative celebration methods, manifesting how drone shows are capturing imaginations and solidifying their place in event history. The potential for emotional resonance along with visually stunning displays suggests that we are likely only scratching the surface of what the future holds for drone entertainment.
