Cologne Carnival, carnival in Cologne, Germany
The Carnival of Cologne is a multiday celebration that fills the streets with music, dancers, and colorful costumes. The event takes place mainly in the Old Town and surrounding neighborhoods, where people gather in pubs and open spaces.
The carnival began on November 11 at 11:11 as a prelude to Lent and has roots in the Middle Ages. The ghost parade tradition started in the mid-1800s and was revived in the early 1990s after being canceled for some years.
The carnival is celebrated as the city's fifth season and shapes local identity. The motto "Kölle Alaaf" expresses togetherness and joy, while the saying "Jeder Jeck ist anders" (everyone is different) reflects acceptance of diverse costumes and personalities.
It is advisable to travel by train since many streets are closed and parking is limited during the celebrations. Costumes are common, but simple and inexpensive outfits are welcome, as the goal is to have fun together.
Huge amounts of candies and chocolates are thrown from the parade floats to the crowds, turning the gathering of sweets into a delightful experience. The Rose Monday parade spans about 8 kilometers and attracts over a million visitors, making it one of the largest carnival parades in Germany.
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