Cologne Carnival

Germany · festivals · traditions · celebration

Costume tradition. People dress up in elaborate costumes and masks for the Cologne Carnival, and there's a special tradition where masks and costumes let people be silly and playful in ways they normally wouldn't.

Three days of madness. The carnival takes place for three main days and is called the biggest street party in Europe, with thousands of people filling the streets to celebrate together.

The Prince and Princess. The carnival has special characters called the Prince and Princess who dress in fancy outfits and lead the celebrations and parades through the city.

Dancing and music. Live bands play traditional music and modern songs while people dance in the streets, and the whole city becomes one giant party with decorations everywhere.

Ancient tradition. Cologne Carnival has been celebrated for hundreds of years and mixes old German customs with the fun of a big modern celebration.