A tragedy struck at the last fireworks show of the season at the Rheinkirmes carnival in Düsseldorf, Germany. This tragic incident occurred on July 18, 2025. One firework burst directly over the crowd, leading to mass and unsafe panic as people fled in every direction. At least 19 others were injured, four of them critically. The event, which is a ten-day celebration featuring amusement rides, drone shows, and various forms of entertainment, turned chaotic late on Friday evening.
The fair, located on the left bank of the Rhine River, drew enormous throngs. Its friendly, scarlet vibes ensured a welcoming stupor, full of current and previous visitors alike. The mood quickly shifted from celebration to horror as fireworks shot off nearly at eye level. This dramatic change is evident in the images shot from the crash scene. Those same bright lights that usually mesmerize fans instead triggered panic and confusion.
Following the accident emergency services, fire and rescue were quickly dispatched to the scene. Eventually, organizers took the precautionary but difficult step of cutting short the day’s celebrations, putting the safety and wellbeing of attendees first. In a statement, Peter Dietlmaier, a spokesperson for the fair’s operators, said he was “profoundly sorry” about the accident and offered condolences to the victims.
“Our thoughts are with those affected and their families. We wish all those affected a speedy recovery from the consequences of the accident. We deeply regret the accident.” – Peter Dietlmaier
While authorities continue to evaluate what went wrong, organizers are weighing whether they should bring back traditional fireworks displays in next year’s celebration. With hundreds of staff members working diligently to ensure a safe environment, this incident raises significant concerns about future safety protocols at large gatherings.
Today, the Rheinkirmes fair is world famous for its exciting rides and colorful international beer tents. Each year, it attracts thousands of visitors who come to enjoy the myriad attractions. The overshadowing nature of this year’s celebratory spirit has unfortunately been the mishap that was found soon after.
