LateRooms.com - Head to Dusseldorf for the biggest funfair on the Rhine

LateRooms.com highlights each July, Düsseldorf takes funfairs to a whole new level with a nine-day event that attracts four million visitors.

Known locally as the Kirmes or the biggest funfair on the Rhine, this temporary complex of Ferris wheels, rollercoasters and other rides features about 350 attractions in total, spread over a 17-hectare site.

This year's event takes place from July 17th to 25th, with many people expected to book hotels in Düsseldorf for the occasion.

One of the most important festivals on the city's calendar, the riverside funfair is also the fourth largest annual event in Germany.

Only the Oktoberfest in Munich, Herne's Cranger Kirmes and the Cannstatter Wasen in Stuttgart attract more people on an annual basis.

The origins of the Kirmes can be traced back to a celebration honouring Düsseldorf's patron saint, Apollinaris of Ravenna, in the 14th century, although nowadays the event is more about the bright lights and thrill rides.

As well as the numerous rollercoasters, the festival site contains many food vendors, beer tents and other stalls to keep the crowds refreshed.

According to the Düsseldorf Tourist Board, visitors looking for a bite to eat can expect everything from "potato pancakes or fried fish to gourmet food served in the French village".

On July 23rd, the festivities will culminate with a spectacular firework display over the river.

However, some features of the original event have survived, including the traditional shooting competition.

Known as the Schutzenfest, this tournament involves local marksmen attempting to shoot a wooden target in the shape of a sparrow.

The funfair site is located in the district of Oberkassel and overlooks the city's old town, on the left bank of the Rhine.

Jessica Reading, head of marketing for LateRooms, commented: "Demand for the biggest funfair on the Rhine is always significant and we recommend that anyone considering attending should book their hotels Düsseldorf as early as possible."

Editors Notes:

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