Competitive “Pyromusical” Displays Are A Thing, And They Are Dazzling

This ai n’t no backyard bottle - rocket engine situation . This is Polaris Fireworks AB of China ’s towering display of gunpowder artistry at the Sixth Philippine International Pyromusical Competition , glimpse last night over the Mall of Asia shopping center to the south of Manila .

This class , eleven state participate in the contest , which stretch over multiple weekend and wrapped up yesterday . Despite China ’s impressive effort , it was only good enough for second place . If you have 22 minutes and the desire to take a narrated “ journey through the change of nature that exists on our planet , ” ensure out the gravy - tastic handiwork of world champions the Netherlands below . ( Do n’t have 22 second , but still curious ? Skip onward to the abstract yet astonishingly efficient pyrotechnic exemplification of “ a large group of playful scallywag ” starting at around 16 minutes . )

Top image AP Photo / Bullit Marquez