Rhein in Flammen – Rhein Riverbank Festival Trechtingshausen

Rhein in Flammen is a series of five major fireworks and shipping events on the Rhine between Bonn and Spay, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. The Bingen-Rüdesheim leg traditionally takes place on the first Saturday in July and features a convoy of up to fifty illuminated ships traveling from Trechtingshausen via Assmannshausen to Bingen-Rüdesheim. Along the route, the castles and castle ruins of the Middle Rhine Valley are bathed in red light by Bengal fires – a scene of great atmospheric power.

Trechtingshausen is located on the left bank of the Rhine between Reichenstein Castle and Sooneck Castle, in the heart of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the Old Sports Field by the Rhine, right on the water's edge, there is an unobstructed view of the river, the opposite slopes, and both nearby castles. Here, the 'Interessengemeinschaft Dorfleben' (Village Life Interest Group) celebrates its annual Rhein Riverbank Festival – a local, community-driven event that provides a convivial atmosphere for watching Rhein in Flammen.

The concept is deliberately village-like and family-friendly. Bratwurst, steaks, fries, salads, and regional specialties are offered at club stands, along with wines from Middle Rhine vintners, draft beer, and non-alcoholic beverages. Beer benches, seating groups, and lounge areas are arranged to maintain a clear view of the Rhine and the castles. Local musicians or DJs provide relaxed musical accompaniment.

The highlight of the evening is the passage of the illuminated convoy. As the ships pass Trechtingshausen, Bengal fires blaze on Reichenstein Castle above the village, bathing the hillside in deep red. A little later, the spectacle is repeated at Sooneck Castle. Later in the night, the grand high-altitude fireworks display takes place at the main town of Bingen and opposite at Rüdesheim, which can be observed from Trechtingshausen in the distance.

The Rhein Riverbank Festival Trechtingshausen is a genuine alternative to the overcrowded main viewing spots in Bingen and Rüdesheim. It's the right place for those seeking a quieter, more village-like setting and wanting to experience the spectacle of the Bengal fires at the castles up close.