Karneval – the fifth season

The highlight of the ‘crazy’ season, also known as the ‘fifth season’, has begun. Our crews have been accompanying the diverse events of the season for quite some time now. Now, colourful street carnivals are taking centre stage in many regions of Germany, with a fun ‘state of emergency’ prevailing in the major strongholds. Offices close early, schools shorten lessons, and public transport prepares for increased traffic volumes, as carnival takes place mainly on the streets.

The carnival tradition dates back to the Middle Ages, when the period before Christian Lent was used to celebrate extensively once again.

In many regions, the street parades are the highlight of the season. Elaborately designed floats, often with satirical comments on politics and society, parade through the city centres, accompanied by marching bands, dance groups and foot troops in colourful costumes. The floats shower the costumed spectators lining the streets with sweets, chocolate and small gifts. It is precisely this mixture of tradition, social criticism and exuberant folk festival atmosphere that makes Carnival a unique cultural event.

The Cologne Rose Monday parade alone regularly attracts over a million visitors. More than 200 carnival parades take place in Germany every year, organised by thousands of local clubs and volunteers. Everywhere, the unifying idea is the same: to slip into different roles for a short time, turn hierarchies upside down and celebrate together.

Those who throw themselves into the fray during these days experience carnival in its most original form: as a collective celebration that combines tradition and the present. Whether in the major strongholds or at smaller parades in towns and communities, the crazy days are an integral part of German festive culture.

We wish all revellers an exuberant, safe and unforgettable carnival season – no matter how and where they celebrate.