PortAventura’s 30th Anniversary: Launching Spain’s First Nightly Drone Show in a Theme Park

On June 21st, 2025, PortAventura World made history by launching the first nightly drone show ever performed at a theme park in Spain, and only the second of its kind in Europe. Integrated into FiestAventura, the park’s award-winning nighttime spectacular, this high-tech production blends 300 luminous drones with fireworks, music, water effects, and live performances, redefining what’s possible in theme park drone entertainment.

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From inspiration to sky

The main inspiration for the drone show was FiestAventura itself — the park’s iconic multi-experiential nighttime performance. The formations in the sky were designed to reflect and enhance the spirit of this celebrated show. Additionally, PortAventura’s 30th anniversary served as the perfect moment to upgrade the guest experience with a technological leap.

It’s worth noting that FiestAventura was awarded Best Live Entertainment in the World in 2000 at a theme park — and the addition of drones brings its storytelling into a new era.

Working closely with PortAventura’s creative team, UMILES designed the drone performance to integrate seamlessly with the existing show. The luminous formations depict iconic elements from the park’s themed areas: a Mexican sombrero, Catrina, cowboy, Chinese dragon, lotus flower, Poseidon, the PortAventura logo, and the 30th anniversary emblem. Each is perfectly choreographed to complement the narrative and atmosphere.

Technology meets artistry

Every night from June 21st to September 6th, 2025, 300 drones take flight above PortAventura World, synchronized with the show’s other breathtaking elements:

• Pyrotechnics
• Water displays
• Vapor projections
• Live actors
• Jet skis

The creative process included:

• Designing formations with Blender for precision and visual impact.
• Coordinating flights using Drone Show Software by SPH Engineering to ensure perfect timing with all special effects.

Audience reaction

Visitors have reacted with great enthusiasm and amazement to the nightly drone show. Many highlight the impressive choreography of lights and shapes, especially the moments when iconic figures like the Mexican hat or the dragon appear in the sky.

The combination of advanced technology, music, and storytelling delivers a memorable, emotional experience that resonates with guests of all ages.

From concept to launch in 45 days

The preparation and launch of the project took about one and a half months, from designing the show and presenting the concept for approval to refining details and running multiple test flights to ensure a flawless debut.

One of the biggest challenges was designing choreography that maintained perfect synchronization between drones and the other complex elements of the show. Achieving this required meticulous planning, technical precision, and multiple rehearsals to align pyrotechnics, water effects, music, and live performances seamlessly.

A landmark moment beyond a show

This project is an upgrade to a live performance and a testament to how creativity, innovation, and technology can combine to create unforgettable audience experiences.

It highlights the power of drone storytelling, powered by Drone Show Software, to transform live entertainment and turn the night sky into a boundless stage for imagination.

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