International Tourist Guide Day has been held on 21 February every year since 1990. Ahead of it, on 18 February 2012, is the main opening event for the German Association of Tourist Guides (BVGD). It is being held this year in Passau on the river Danube, the 'Venice of Bavaria'. There will be special tours of the town, which will reflect the 2012 theme for International Tourist Guide Day, 'Through Doorways and Gateways'. Visitors will be able to find out what went on behind some of the town's doors and gates.