ILT is excited to confirm the return of the ILT Fireworks Spectacular to Rugby Park in 2026.
The fireworks will launch at full-time of the SBS Bank Southland Stags’ final regular season home game against Northland on Friday, October 2, with kick-off at 7.10pm and the display expected to light up the Invercargill night sky at approximately 8.50pm.
Now in its third year, the ILT Fireworks Spectacular will once again be included as part of the standard game day experience at no additional cost, delivering incredible value for fans and families attending one of the biggest nights on the Southland sporting calendar.
ILT is funding the display, with Rugby Southland managing the logistics and delivery of the event at Rugby Park Stadium.
Speaking on behalf of ILT, President Paddy O’Brien said the organisation was pleased to continue supporting this popular community event.
“It’s fantastic to see how quickly the ILT Fireworks Spectacular has become a tradition for Southland families,” he said. “The fireworks have quickly become a highlight of the season, and we’re pleased to help make that experience possible again in 2026.”
“It is a celebration of our community, our Stags and the pride Southlanders have in getting behind one another. We hope it gives people of all ages a great reason to get along to the game, enjoy the atmosphere and make some memories together.”
In 2026, the display will feature an extended programme of fireworks and effects, adding to the atmosphere of a Friday night Stags fixture under lights.
The fireworks display is weather dependent and may be postponed or adjusted in the event of unsuitable conditions.
“This is shaping up to be one of the biggest events we’ve ever hosted at Rugby Park,” said Rugby Southland Head of Commercial and Business Development Jack King. “Over the past two years, the ILT Fireworks Spectacular has become one of the standout events on our calendar, and the community response has been incredible. For the third edition in 2026, we wanted to go even bigger and create a truly unforgettable experience for our fans and families.
“With a huge South versus North clash against Northland, an electric Friday night atmosphere, and the biggest fireworks display we’ve ever delivered, it’s going to be an amazing night for Southlanders of all ages. We’re incredibly grateful to ILT for continuing to work alongside Rugby Southland to help create memorable experiences for our community.”
The ILT Fireworks Spectacular is included with standard match admission. Tickets remain fantastic value, with adult tickets priced from just $20, while every paying adult can bring two children aged 13 and under free of charge.
With a huge clash against Northland, a bumper crowd expected, and the biggest fireworks display Rugby Park has ever seen set to erupt at full-time, Friday October 2 is shaping up as one of the must-attend events of the Southland sporting calendar.
Tents and bespoke hosting options are available for the prime time Friday evening social slot. More information can be found on the Rugby Southland Website and spaces are selling fast!
Tickets will be available through Ticketek and from the Civic Theatre box office.