Everything You Need To Know: The Lord Mayor’s Fireworks Extravaganza

The Lord Mayor’s Fireworks Extravaganza returns to illuminate the night sky at Chester Racecourse on Saturday (4 November).

The spectacular, not-for-profit event, which raises money for several local charities, is Chester’s most popular annual fireworks night, attracting thousands of guests to the Roodee.

Delivered by the racecourse in partnership with the Lord Mayor and Cheshire West and Chester Council, this year’s sparkling occasion features two amazing firework displays curated to music – including a quiet one lasting six minutes – plus roaming entertainers, a live DJ and a fun fair.

Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the event…

When is it?

Saturday 4 November 2023 at Chester Racecourse.

Can I buy tickets on the day?

All tickets have now SOLD OUT, as of Saturday morning. Please do not attend the event without a ticket. No further tickets are available to purchase.

What are the timings for the event?

The gates will open to the public at 5pm. The low noise fireworks display, ideal for children, will take place at approximately 6.45pm and the main fireworks display will start at approximately 7.30pm. The bars will close at 8.30pm, and the funfair and racecourse will close at 9pm.

Please note: all timings are subject to change.

Where do I enter the racecourse?

Early bird and general admission ticket holders should access the racecourse via gates 3A and 4. VIP and The White Horse ticket holders can access via gate 3.

Those in 1539 should enter via gate 4, while those for County Boxes, including charities, should access via gate 4A.

Please note that bags will be searched on entrance to the racecourse. Bringing your own fireworks/sparklers is strictly prohibited.

What time is last entry?

Last entry to the racecourse is at 7.30pm

Will there be parking?

Unfortunately, there is no parking available at the racecourse on the day. Parking is available in a range of city centre car parks provided by Cheshire West and Chester Council. Please see a list of car parks here.

Are there any road closures to be aware of?

Yes, road closures will be in place on New Crane Street, Nuns Road and Watergate Street from 1pm. These closures will remain in place until 11.59pm. Please travel by public transport where possible.

Where can I access on the racecourse?

The entirety of the grandstand side of the racetrack will be open to all ticketholders on the night. Every ticketholder can move between Dee, Tattersalls and County stands freely, as well as across the track to The White Horse car park where the funfair will be located, as well as food vendors.

VIP ticket holders will have access to the Pavilion Suite and Pavilion Roof viewing area.

The inner paddock area of the racecourse will not be in use by the public for health and safety reasons.

Will there be food & drink?

Yes, there will be a range of places serving food/drink on the night including racecourse bars and restaurants, as well as third-party food stalls. Attendees are advised to bring both cash and card.

Is there a dress code?

We encourage all those attending to dress for the elements. There is limited cover, so we encourage attendees to bring a coat/umbrella just in case.

Which charities are being supported?

The Lord Mayor’s Fireworks Extravaganza is a not-for-profit event benefitting five local charities: SHARE, Crossroads Community Hub, Soul Kitchen, Blacon Beacon (Pantry for Beacon) and The Chester Lions.

Collections on behalf of these charities will also take place on the night.