Yes, Fireworks are Still Banned Within the 5th Ring for the Year of the Ox

Despite rumors to the contrary, setting off fireworks within the Fifth Ring this Chinese New Year will remain banned, as it has been for many years now (even though a few other major cities like Kunming have lifted their bans to allow citizens to go all out in celebrating the end of a hard lunar year).

But don’t let that disappoint you, as you can still legally buy them and set them off in certain spots, even without needing to venture out of the city limits and into Hebei.

Outside of the Fifth Ring Road, fireworks can be set off throughout the whole day of New Year’s Eve (Feb 11) and the first day of the Chinese New Year (Feb 12), as well as from 7am to midnight on the second day to the 15th day of the first lunar month (that’s Feb 13 to Feb 26).

Although specified purchasing points have yet to be announced, a representative of major retailer Panda Fireworks told the Beijinger that the list of fireworks stands will be released before Feb 6. This year the period in which fireworks can legally be sold will go from Feb 6 to Feb 16.

Unlike in days of yore, most of the purchasing points will be located in the suburbs, and they don't send this stuff by courier, so you'll have to haul your butt out there and buy in person. Don’t forget to take your ID or passport because you need to register with your real name. 

For your consideration, the thoughtful folks at Panda Fireworks have developed a bunch of fun explosives with worldly themes that will help us forget how long it’s been since we have been able to travel overseas. Select your dream destination, light its fuse, and blow it to pieces:

A Night in Milan 米兰之夜

Spring of Paris 巴黎春天

Blue Hawaii 蓝色夏威夷

Roman Holiday 罗马假日

 Red Caribbean 红色加勒比

So Where Can I Actually Legally Set Off Fireworks?

First off, just forget anywhere within the Fifth Ring. But it's not just a matter of heading outside the ring road and start detonating -- there's still lots of sub-rules that make finding a suitable spot a little daunting.

According to the Beijing Emergency Management Bureau, there are a few other specific restrictions. For example, it is forbidden to set off fireworks within 10 meters of hospitals, cultural relics, subway stations and other transportation hubs, kindergartens, homes for the elderly and important military facilities. And no blowing off fireworks within 60 meters of oil and gas tanks, gas stations and other flammable or explosive goods storage sites.

When in doubt, ask around first to get the okay before starting the celebrations.

READ: Beijing News You Might Have Missed This Week, Jan 23

Image: Pixbay