Drones have revolutionized the way we experience events, rapidly emerging as a modern alternative to traditional fireworks displays. As technology advances, we see drone shows increasingly captivating audiences not only at major public events but also at personal celebrations, such as weddings and birthdays. For instance, a notable example comes from a New Year’s Eve wedding of Bobby Underwood and his wife, Siobhan, which included a spectacular drone show that left guests in awe. This particular performance featured around 300 drones illuminating the night sky with tailored animations, including a baseball player celebrating Mr. Underwood’s love for the sport, exemplifying how weddings can embrace personalized experiences through technology.
New York State hosted this memorable wedding celebration, where the couple was taken by surprise during their ceremony. As they completed the traditional glass-breaking ritual, they were treated to an unexpected aerial display that transformed their nuptials into an unforgettable moment. “It was honestly remarkable, very overwhelming – and incredibly emotional for us,” Mrs. Underwood noted, expressing her gratitude toward her mother, who had worked with their wedding planner to create this stunning spectacle. This element certainly added a unique and memorable touch to their wedding, establishing drone shows as something that couples are increasingly willing to incorporate into their special days.
Drone shows have gained traction across various events beyond weddings. For example, prestigious events like the Glastonbury Festival in the UK embraced drone technology for the first time in 2024, thanks to the expertise of UK-based drone show company, Celestial. The potential of these aerial wonders has sparked considerable public interest, as some displays have even achieved record-breaking scales. In October 2024, China witnessed the largest drone show in history, involving a staggering 10,200 drones, setting a benchmark for the industry and leaving many entertainment enthusiasts to ponder the future of fireworks.
Sally French, a prominent commentator in the drone industry known as “The Drone Girl,” highlights the artistry associated with these events. “They are really beautiful – they are art,” she asserts, noting the increasing sophistication of drone displays, where thousands of drones coordinate to animate intricate figures or symbols with noteworthy precision. While discussing the potential of these aerial displays, French recalls an innovative Star Wars-themed show, which visually enthralled audiences with a full-scale lightsaber battle, demonstrating that the boundaries of creativity are continually expanding.
However, financing these extravagant shows may pose a challenge. As per industry analysis from SPH Engineering, the cost per drone averages around $300 (approximately £220) in the UK, amounting to over $150,000 for a 500-drone show. Mrs. Underwood estimates that their wedding drone display cost tens of thousands of dollars, a significant investment but one that created lasting memories for all involved.
Patrick O’Mahony, the co-founder and creative director of Skymagic, a major player in the drone show industry, elaborates on the costs and benefits associated with drone displays. His company has produced performances at high-profile events, including Coachella in California, and even the King’s Coronation concert in the UK. He explains that their fleet of 6,000 custom-designed drones can perform complex aerial choreography, achieving speeds up to 10 meters per second, with LED lights enhancing the visual experience.
While traditional fireworks bring an undeniable “boom” factor, innovative drones can now integrate pyrotechnics to enhance their displays. This fusion of technologies allows for the synchronization of music and visuals, elevating the experience for audiences. However, the expensive and intricate nature of drone shows means they are still deemed a luxury for many, involving extensive manual setup and handling before and after performances.
As the popularity of drone shows continues to grow, industry experts like Pedro Rosário stress the importance of navigating complex regulations that govern drone operations, which can vary significantly between countries. He indicates that drone performances can creatively tell stories filled with emotional resonance, further adding to their appeal as an entertainment option. Guests at events like the Underwood wedding are often left enchanted, sharing their awe and surprise with others, indicating that the future of celebrations may very well lie in the remains of these spectacular aerial displays. The integration of drones into personal and public events signals a significant shift toward innovative alternatives in event entertainment, allowing for a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences to unfold in the skies above us.
