Overview
- The St. Sebastianus-Schützen voted by a large majority to hold the fireworks at the 2026 Rheinkirmes.
- An expert assessment found last year’s accident was caused by a faulty fireworks shell that exploded on the ground and damaged launch tubes.
- Organisers say the 2026 show will include higher safety standards for the main fireworks night.
- The 2025 display injured 19 people, including four seriously, after two misfired projectiles reached spectators near the river meadows and bridge.
- The decision was announced with input from Nico Europe, which staged prior shows, while the city’s Japan-Tag fireworks on May 23, 2026 remain scheduled.