"Tanz in den Mai" (Dance into May) is a longtime German tradition, symbolizing the start of spring. These pictures capture the mood at the Hotel Königshof as revelers of all ages danced into May, 2019.

In the night leading to May Day, some troublemakers at the Rheinaue Park sank a beer cart that had been placed there for Rhine in Flames. Organizers are angry about the incident.

On Tuesday morning, an ATM at a Deutsche Bank branch in Mehlem was blown up with explosives, the culprits taking cash with them. Police used a helicopter to search for the suspects. They have now released security footage of the men.

Stores may be closed in Germany on the first of May, but is not a holiday in the Netherlands. Here are some places where people who live in NRW like to shop in Maastricht, Roermond and Amsterdam.

Coming up this first weekend in May, it’s time for Rhine in Flames, a huge event along the Rhine and a highlight of the year for many. It ends with a magnificent fireworks display on Saturday. For some background on the event and where to find detailed information in English, read on.