A series of mind-blowing pyrotechnical spectacles, Rhine in Flames lights up the sky above picturesque towns and cities along the prettiest stretch of the mighty River Rhine.



Bengal fire (a blue flare) lights up the river's many castles and palaces, Europe's largest river fleet parades in flamboyant style and the river itself fills with pyrotechnics. Watch from the bankside or from boats bringing visitors to the prime viewing spots.



The five Rhine in Flames events are as follows:

3 May: Between Linz and Bonn, the longest stretch of the spectacle, more than 2000 large Bengal lights guide the way for a fleet of 60 ships cruising down the River Rhine. All towns on this stretch have their own celebrations and festivals during this weekend and we recommend doing a bit of village-hopping the following day to catch the atmosphere (and wine!) of the region.

5 July: Night of Fire Magic radiantly illuminates the castles and churches along the stream. More than 50 decorated boats parade between the wine towns of Bingen and Rüdesheim.



9 August: Between Spay and Koblenz, around 60km south of Bonn. Europe's largest procession of ships, eight firework displays in less than 90 minutes and ten miles of decorated promenades make this the highlight of the Rhine in Flames events.

13 September: The fireworks around Oberwesel in the heart of the Rhine Gorge are accompanied by music and a cruise on one of the 40 ships heading off from nearby St Goar is dazzling, passing by the famous Loreley, the "Seven Maidens" and the city of Oberwesel, all bathed in the light of the spectacular displays.

20 September: The Loreley Night is arguably the most romantic of all. A large festival in the twin towns of St Goar and St Goarshausen caters for the crowds with local wine and specialities while four separate firework displays take place over the river.