Sail through the Danube and discover why travelers flock to this mighty river every year to extol its wondrous treasures.

It’s not just any river that has its own festival, but then the Danube isn’t just any river. In a large-scale, national and cross-national day of festivities, Danube Day is celebrated by the residents of over ten European countries on June 29.

Millions of travelers flock to the mighty Danube River every year — but have you ever wondered why?

Europe’s second largest waterway connects Central and Eastern Europe, flowing over 1,700 miles through ten countries—that’s more nations than any other river in the world. The Danube has had a front-row seat to some of Europe’s most significant moments in history and is home to four glittering capitals: Vienna, Budapest, Bratislava and Belgrade — plus numerous fascinating and legendary cities like Regensburg, Linz, Mohács, Vukovar, Ilok and Novi Sad.

The millions that live here take pride in the Danube’s history and everlasting allure. And so, once a year, the countries of the Danube get together to participate in a multi-nation celebration of this magnificent river. Partygoers celebrate with such entertainment as cook-offs, live music, photo competitions, delicious food, horse riding and archery. These celebrations are always a fun, festive way to enjoy time with friends and family and feel connected to both local communities and those across borders.

The Danube has inspired artists (as well as gourmet lovers and oenophiles) throughout the centuries. Beethoven, Mozart and Gustav Klimt were all either born here or drawn to the region as famous for its culture as its mouthwatering Riesling wines and Sacher-Torte cakes. Austria’s Johann Strauss II, who was born right on the Danube in Vienna, composed the classical masterpiece “The Blue Danube” in 1866, and since then, the namesake river has remained associated with this classical waltz.

Long a center of music, art and literature (and incredible cuisine and wines)

Architecture in the form of imposing castles and impressive cathedrals, such as Buda Castle and Melk Abbey, were built to take advantage of hills overlooking the Danube. And the enchanting Wachau Valley lies along the Danube as well, with locals and visitors alike charmed by its scenic beauty and world-class wines.

It is also a wonderful way to display a solidary commitment to environmental progress. A wide variety of diverse flora and fauna (over 5,000) live here, including 331 different types of birds, such as the White-tailed Eagle and Pygmy Cormorant. Along with the diverse ecosystem, the Danube is a source of drinking water and life for twenty million people. And of course, the river is a source of income for many residents, who make their living along the waterway.

Continue the celebration when learning more about the storied region of the legendary Danube River.

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