Karneval
Karneval is a festive season celebrated in many parts of Germany, particularly in the Rhineland.
About Karneval
Karneval (also known as Fasching or Fastnacht depending on the region) is one of Germany's most beloved cultural traditions and is celebrated primarily in the Catholic regions of the Rhineland, particularly in cities like Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Mainz. This carnival celebration begins on November 11th at 11:11 am but reaches its peak during the week before Ash Wednesday, with the most intense celebrations taking place from the Thursday before Ash Wednesday (Weiberfastnacht) until Ash Wednesday (Aschermittwoch). During this time, normal social conventions are playfully overturned, with elaborate costumes, parades, music, dancing, and revelry filling the streets. In Cologne, the largest Karneval celebration in Germany, the event features the triumvirate of Carnival figures: the Prince, the Peasant, and the Maiden. The highlight is Rose Monday (Rosenmontag) with massive parades where participants throw candy (Kamelle) and flowers to spectators while floats often display satirical political commentary. The tradition has roots in medieval times when people would celebrate and feast before the fasting season of Lent. Over centuries, it evolved to include masked balls, theatrical performances, and social critique. Today, Karneval combines religious heritage, folk traditions, and modern festivity, serving as an important cultural identifier for many Germans.