City illuminates once more after six years of darkness in Cologne.

The much-anticipated Cologne Lights, one of Germany's largest fireworks displays, is set to light up the Rhine once more this Saturday evening. Organised by Leverkusener Werner Nolden GmbH, the event promises a spectacular music-synchronized fireworks show that has been a staple in Cologne's calendar for many years.

Despite the challenges posed by the Corona pandemic, the event is back, and with significant adaptations to ensure the safety and security of all attendees. Nolden, the event's organiser, has ruled out the possibility of an accident similar to the one at the Düsseldorf Rhine Carnival, assuring the population that the event is safe to attend.

The security concept for the Cologne Lights has been significantly adapted due to past attacks and the unique nature of the event. The fireworks are not a land display but are attached to the bottom of a 200-meter-long container ship, reducing the risk of an accident. Surrounding the ship are five-meter-high steel walls, ensuring a contained and controlled environment.

In addition to the Cologne Lights, the police will also secure two demonstration marches in the afternoon. A total of 1,600 police officers will be present at the event for security, a reduction from the former 54 passenger ships with a total of 20,000 guests on board, now narrowed down to 24 ships on the Rhine.

The music-synchronized fireworks display is scheduled to start at 10:30 PM. There are paid seating areas on tribunes and ships, as well as up to 300,000 free standing places along the riverbank. Tickets for the paid seating areas can be purchased online or at the event itself.

The event now has 150 partners and sponsors, including shipping companies, parties, and companies with large customers. Several main sponsors and many other supporters from the Cologne population have filled the financial gap that was created due to the pandemic.

Nolden expects significantly lower attendance at the event compared to previous years, but the spirit of the Cologne Lights remains undimmed. After the pandemic hiatus, the return of this beloved event is a beacon of hope and a testament to the resilience of Cologne's vibrant culture.