Rhine in Flames 2025 Bonn once again promises a spectacle of superlatives: eleven music-synchronized fireworks, over 50 illuminated ships and a 6 km long laser show will transform the Rhine into a sea of lights on 3 May. With over 300,000 visitors, the event is one of the biggest in NRW – and best of all, it’s only 18 minutes by train from your vacation apartment in Oberwinter to the heart of the action. This guide provides all the information you need about the program, how to get there, photo spots and insider tips.

Program highlights 2025

– 17:00: Street food mile Bonn-Oberkassel with 120 stands
– 19:45: Boat convoy starts in Linz, live band *Kasalla* on board
– 21:30: the first fireworks display in Königswinter (“Blue Rhapsody”)
– 22:15: Main fireworks display at the Bonn South Bridge (5,100 effects, LED drone matrix)
– 22:30: Laser symphony “Rhein Pulse” to Beethoven 5
– 23:00 hrs: After-show DJ at the old customs office until 01:00 hrs

Best viewpoints & insider spots

1. Rheinaue sun deck – largest area, suitable for picnics (closed from 3 p.m., LED wristband recommended for re-entry)
2. Old Customs Plateau – Elevated view, ideal for portraits during Golden Hour (6-8 pm)
3. Chancellor Skywalk (UN Campus) – limited access, free tickets from 10 am
4. Drachenfels ruins – Long-distance view over the whole valley
5th ship “Rheinprinzessin” – premium deck for 360° panorama (129 €)

Arrival, parking & public transport

– RB 26 from Oberwinter every 30 min, return special trains 00:15 and 01:05
– P+R: Uni-Campus Poppelsdorf (1,000 spaces, €6/day), shuttle bus line R
– City center parking garages close at 6 pm, exit only after 1:30 am
– Free bike lockers in the Rheinaue Nord
– KD combined train+boat ticket: € 59 with guaranteed seating
– Wheelchair shuttle Hbf → Rheinaue bookable until May 2, 12 noon

Street food & safety information

– Veggie mile at the old customsBao-Beethoven and Ahr-Recovery-Winebar among others
– Glass bottle ban, 600 police officers, mobile video surveillance
– 350 WCs + 12 barrier-free sanitary containers
– Child protection: Family zone with 85 dB level, changing container & nursing tent
– Emergency SMS 114 for hearing-impaired visitors

Sustainability & inclusion

– 2025 for the first time: biodegradable fireworks shells & “Quiet Fireworks”
– Pyrotechnics powered by Rheinlaufwasserkraft & GPS ignition technology
– Inclusion deck on MS Beethoven: interpreting in sign language via livestream
– Hearing loops along the promenade for hearing aid users (frequency 105 MHz)

Conclusion: Experience the Rhine in Flames without stress

With the right planning, Rhein in Flammen 2025 will be a relaxed and impressive experience. Avoid overcrowded parking lots and stay overnight in Oberwinter – with a view of the Rhine, peace and quiet and a direct train connection to Bonn.