Subscribe

K-TOWN NOW

Fireworks, festivals and fresh ink in the KMC this weekend


Fireworks light up the night sky.

There’s no shortage of opportunities to see a spectacular fireworks display in the Kaiserslautern Military Community this weekend. (Jennifer Gonzales/U.S. Air Force)

It’s Fourth of July weekend, and the Kaiserslautern Military Community is ready to celebrate. Whether you’re in the mood for fireworks, a massive street party or even a new tattoo, there’s something for everyone this weekend. Here’s what’s on deck:

Freedom and Friendship Fest 2025: Enjoy live music, carnival rides, delicious food and dazzling fireworks at this patriotic party at Ramstein Air Base on Thursday from 2 p.m. to midnight and Friday from noon to midnight. A free shuttle runs from the the base’s North Chapel to the event site. Admission is free, but bring cash for rides and vendors.

Tattoo convention: Get inked or admire the art at this bold and buzzing bash in Ramstein-Miesenbach on Saturday and Sunday from 6 to 10 p.m. Artists from across the region will be showing off their work, with chances to book a session or just soak in the creative energy. Ticket information available here.

Old Town festival: Party with the crowd as Kaiserslautern’s historic center turns into one massive open-air pub on Friday from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Expect live music, local food and 150,000 guests bringing serious summer vibes. Free admission.

Rhein in Flames: Cruise past castles and cliffside ruins lit by choreographed fireworks at this fiery floating spectacle departing from Rüdesheim Friday at 5 p.m. and Saturday at 3 p.m. Land lovers can catch the grand finale from Rüdesheim or Bingen for free. Tickets start at 119 euros.

Sign Up for Daily Headlines

Sign up to receive a daily email of today's top military news stories from Stars and Stripes and top news outlets from around the world.

Sign Up Now