Cologne Lights 2025: Fireworks comeback under the motto Phoenix
On August 30, 2025, the Cologne lights will return after five years. Experience a spectacular fireworks display on the Rhine!

Cologne Lights 2025: Fireworks comeback under the motto Phoenix
It's official: The “Cologne Lights” are back at the start! After a long break of five years, the popular spectacle returns on August 30, 2025, under the promising motto “The Phoenix Project”. An estimated 350,000 spectators are expected on the banks of the Rhine that day to experience the colorful spectacle. [24rhein]. the Rhine.
The experienced team of pyrotechnicians led by Georg Alef is responsible for the impressive fireworks display. He has made a name for himself with his own company and will ensure that a true fireworks display for the senses unfolds in Cologne's night sky. With its huge concept, the event promises to “revive” not only the Cologne lights, but also the city’s party mood, in the spirit of the “Phoenix”. Visitors on both sides of the Rhine can look forward to visual and acoustic highlights.
Supporting program and information on arrival
The event begins at 3 p.m. with the opening of the numerous food stalls. At 8 p.m. things get exciting for sports enthusiasts: The Cologne Rowing Club 1877 e. V. presents the “90th Cologne City Eighth”. A celebratory reception atmosphere will then be created at 9:15 p.m. when the passenger ships return, accompanied by cell phone lights and music. Koeln emphasizes that there will be no large stages in this edition, but elements of the event will be gradually reintroduced.
Tickets for the best seats will be in high demand! There are currently still remaining tickets for the event ship Oceandiva Nova, which is available for 179 euros per person. The following prices are available in the stands on the banks of the Rhine:
| Place | Price |
|---|---|
| Grandstand on the banks of the Bastei | 119.70 euros |
| Cathedral view terrace | 189 euros |
| Beer garden of the Rhine terraces | 179 euros |
| Cologne cable car | 520 euros for 4 people |
| Rheinloft Cologne | from 350 euros |
| Water tower | sold out |
| CologneSky | sold out |
For those who prefer something cheaper: There are also plenty of free standing places with good views along the Rhine, for example in the old town or at the Rheinpark. However, if you want to take part in the Cologne Lights, you should hurry up and arrive by 7 p.m. at the latest in order to avoid closed bank areas.
An event in new splendor
The Mayor of Cologne, Henriette Reker, has taken over the patronage of the 20th edition of the Cologne Lights and is thus continuing the tradition. The main sponsor, RheinEnergie AG, as well as numerous partner companies, including Gaffel and Reissdorf, make this fantastic event possible. Koelner-lichter emphasizes that the Cologne Lights are primarily a festival for everyone, with free entry and a variety of attractions. You are allowed to bring your own food, but glass bottles and beer kegs must remain outside.
Be there when the Cologne lights shine again on August 30, 2025 and make sure you don't miss anything! It will be an unforgettable event in the heart of Cologne!