For the members of the Water Rescue Service Füssen (and from the surrounding area), their first call of the new year is always a freezing-cold affair. Traditionally, on New Year’s Day at dusk, up to a hundred daring lifeguards jump into the wintry-cold Lech River. Then, by torchlight , they drift downstream past Füssen’s old town to wish all spectators a Happy New Year.

Anyone who wants to witness this impressive spectacle should arrive early on January 1 to secure a good spot on the banks of the Lech or on the Theresien Bridge below St. Mang Monastery. Starting at 4:00 p.m., you can pass the time here with mulled wine, punch, and hot sausages until the first torches become visible at the bend in the Lech around 5:30 p.m. As the torchbearers pass the Theresien Bridge, the Füssen gun saluters will fire a salute to the New Year with their heavy hand cannons and the large cannon. Once everyone is safely back on dry land, the event concludes with a fireworks display over the Lech.

Please note that photos and videos will be taken during the event for press and public relations purposes by Füssen Tourism and Marketing.