Embarking on the adventure of German Carnival can feel a bit like navigating a vibrant labyrinth—it goes on for months, takes on countless forms, and can vary wildly from one town to the next. This article is your trusty compass, guiding you through the maze and into the heart of this incredible tradition.
At first glance, the length and diversity of Germany’s Carnival season can seem as intricate and varied as the patterns on a traditional ‘Narrenkappe’ (jester’s cap). From the ‘Fifth Season’s’ kickoff in November to the finale on Ash Wednesday, the celebrations ebb and flow like a river of confetti through the streets of Germany.
Each region adds its own splash of color to the festivities, crafting a patchwork of jubilant customs that can be as bewildering as they are breathtaking.
But fear not, because complexity often bears the most extraordinary spectacles, and German Carnival is no exception.
In the following paragraphs, we’ll unveil the threads that weave through this elaborate cultural fabric. By the end, you’ll not only grasp the intricacies of these prolonged festivities but revel in them. So come along on this festive journey—you’re about to discover how this elaborate season is not just a carnival but a carousel of German delight.
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A Kaleidoscope of Celebrations: Germany’s Carnival Traditions And History
Imagine stepping into a world where the streets burst into life with a myriad of colors and the air resonates with lively music. In Germany, this vibrant tapestry is not a figment of your imagination—it’s Carnival season, an annual festivity with roots as rich as the culture itself.
You see, in Germany, Carnival is not just a singular event; it’s a patchwork quilt of traditions, each region sewing in its unique stitch. From the Rhineland’s euphoric Karneval to the time-honored rituals of Swabia’s Fasnet, your journey through this festive season is a path through history.
As you navigate this celebration, know that it’s more than a modern-day party. It’s a living, breathing testament to centuries-old customs. It harks back to pagan times, a defiant blaze of warmth and merriment against winter’s chill, now intertwined with Christian traditions. This festive fusion marks the onset of Lent, inviting everyone to feast and frolic before the period of fasting begins.
Dive deeper into history, and you’ll find that Germany’s Carnival has roots that are as tangled as old folklore. Originating in the medieval era, it served as an escape from the rigid social orders of the time. It was a day when jesters ruled, and kings were but jests—the world turned upside down in a deliberate act of topsy-turvy.
The origins of Carnival in Germany can be traced back to various pre-Christian spring rites. Dedicated to driving out the cold grasp of winter and welcoming the fertility of spring, these rituals later merged with Christian customs as the centuries passed. It evolved to become a period of indulgence before the austerity of Lent’s 40 days of fasting, a final, grandiose farewell to excess and meat, which is lent from the Latin word ‘carnelevare’, whence ‘Carnival’ is said to derive.
Fast forward to the 19th century, and the Carnival had begun taking the shape you might recognize today. The first modern Carnival parades took place in Cologne in the 1820s, with floats and costumed processions that satirized public figures and events, pushing boundaries and inveigling onlookers into the spirited heart of social commentary.
It was a rare moment in time when the usual constraints of class and propriety were briefly put aside.
Throughout the tumultuous courses of history—through wars, revolutions, and societal change—Carnival has remained a steadfast beacon of joy and unity. Even during the darker times when celebrations were banned or frowned upon, the spirit of Carnival refused to be extinguished, simmering beneath the surface, waiting for spring to arrive once again.
So, as you prepare to dive into Germany’s Carnival, pack not just your suitcase but also your curiosity. You’re about to embark on a journey through a celebration that transcends the revelry, into the very heart of Germany’s cultural heritage.
From Fasching to Fastnacht: Understanding Germany’s Regional Carnival Names
Delving into Germany’s Carnival celebration is akin to opening a linguistic treasure chest—each region not only has its own traditions but also its own name for the festivities. These names are a tapestry of the nation’s regional dialects and historical narratives, each telling its own unique story.
In the southern parts of Germany, particularly in Bavaria and Austria as well as in Eastern Germany, you’ll hear the term ‘Fasching’ used. This term is believed to stem from the Middle High German word ‘vaschanc’ or ‘vaschang,’ in reference to the last serving of alcoholic drinks before Lent. Here, Fasching is marked by grand balls and festive parades that fill the winter air with an electrifying buzz.
Travel up north to the Rhineland, and the celebration transforms into ‘Karneval,’ a term that many theorize also points back to the Latin ‘carnelevare,’ underlying the ‘meat-less’ days ahead in the Lenten period.
The Karneval spirit is infectious and is most prominent in cities like Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Mainz, known for their impressive parades and jovial ‘sessions’ and ‘sitzungen’—theatrical and musical performances full of satire and humor.
Over in Swabia and Franconia, ‘Fastnacht’ prevails. This word is drawn directly from the eve of the Lenten Fast. Fastnacht is often celebrated with traditional wooden masks, historical plays, and elaborate, ritualized dances that have been passed down through generations. It carries a more mystical and ancient flavor, a contrast to the rollicking mirth of Karneval.
While the names and customs may vary, the spirit of shedding daily worries and basking in life’s pleasures connects them all. Whether it’s ‘Fasching,’ ‘Karneval,’ or ‘Fastnacht,’ each celebration leads into the solemn period of Lent with an outburst of community joy and a shared sense of rebirth.
As you explore these regions, listen for these words, and you will unlock the cultural nuances of each celebration. Attend the festivities, and let the local pride and traditions sweep you along in their historical currents. This is an intimate glimpse into the local soul, an invitation to experience the diversity of Germany’s Carnival.
The Festive Season: A Calendar Guide to Germany’s Carnival Events
For those of you unfamiliar with Germany’s Carnival, it might come as a surprise that the festivities are not confined to just one day or week. Instead, they stretch across a season that is rich in variety and lasting longer than one might expect, often beginning on November 11th at 11:11 am and culminating in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday in February or March.
For newcomers, this prolonged revelry can indeed seem perplexing, a stark contrast to the single-event celebrations elsewhere.
The season kicks into higher gear after the Christmas holidays, with the start of the new year marking a crescendo in celebrations. Balls, parades, and parties become almost daily occurrences in some regions. But two periods stand out in particular: ‘Weiberfastnacht’ and the ‘Six Days of Carnival.’
‘Weiberfastnacht,’ also known as ‘Women’s Carnival Day,’ usually takes place on the Thursday before Ash Wednesday. What began as a day for women to assert their power has evolved into a raucous celebration where gender norms are playfully subverted and everyone can partake in the fun. Men, beware: tradition holds that women are permitted to cut off your ties!
The apex of the season is the ‘Six Days of Carnival,’ known in many regions as the ‘Crazy Days.’ This marathon of merrymaking starts on the Thursday before Lent and lasts until ‘Aschermittwoch’ (Ash Wednesday), with the weekend generally seeing the largest and most flamboyant parades.
The exact dates vary yearly, as they depend on the date of Easter, and consequently, the preceding period of Lent.
Sunday often witnesses the ‘Kinderumzug,’ a gentler, family-oriented parade where children take center stage in the costumed fun. Then comes Rose Monday (‘Rosenmontag’), the grandest parade of them all, featuring elaborately decorated floats and groups in matching costumes twisting through city streets, graciously pelting onlookers with sweets (‘Kamelle’) and flowers (‘Rosen’).
The last hurrah is ‘Fastnacht Tuesday,’ another day of parades and parties, where the last bits of gluttony are enjoyed before the austerity of Lent. At the stroke of midnight, or in some areas, the following day, comes the traditional ‘Geldbeutelwäsche,’ or ‘money wallet wash,’ symbolizing the purging of excesses and the hope that prosperity will return in the coming year.
Exactly what is celebrated, when, depends on where you are in Germany. Some areas celebrate more than others.
Mark your calendars and allow yourself to be carried away by this time-honored tradition, but don’t be surprised if the lines between days start to blur amidst the flurry of activity. In Germany’s Carnival season, each day is a unique chapter in a larger story of jubilation that you’ll surely want to experience firsthand.
Costumes and Parades: The Visual Spectacles of German Carnival
When it comes to German Carnival, the old adage “seeing is believing” takes on a whole new meaning. The costumes and parades of the season are the vibrant heart of the celebration, inviting both young and old to don their most extravagant attire and lose themselves in the spectacle.
Costumes during Carnival are a fantastic display of creativity and tradition. Whether they be homemade or professionally crafted, they are often bold, whimsical, and daring.
These outfits aren’t just about style; they’re steeped in history and social commentary, with many groups choosing themes that reflect current events or local tales. From the satirical to the fantastical, the costumes you’ll witness are as diverse as Germany itself.
And then there are the parades, which are arguably the zenith of visual splendor during Carnival. These grand processions are where communities come together to showcase their ingenuity and regional pride.
Each float is a masterpiece of design and engineering, bursting with colors and characters that tell stories or poke fun at political figures and celebrities. The air buzzes with the rhythms of marching bands and the cheerful clamor of the crowd, as sweets and playful jeers are exchanged.
In cities like Cologne and Mainz, the parades draw millions of spectators from all corners of the globe. ‘Narren’ (jesters), ‘Prinzen’ (princes), and ‘Bauern’ (farmers) in their traditional roles interact with the crowds, keeping alive a sense of continuity with the past.
Whether it’s the eerie and haunting masks of the Swabian-Alemannic Fastnacht or the glittering gowns of the Rhineland’s princesses, each costume and float is a thread in the fabric of this grand tapestry.
For the uninitiated, witnessing these parades is akin to stepping into a living, breathing storybook where every page turn is another float, another group of revelers, another burst of laughter. So, as you navigate these festive displays, let your imagination roam free.
Behind every mask and beneath every costume is a story, a piece of a tradition that is more than just a spectacle—it’s an invitation to be part of a community’s most colorful and spirited expression of joy.
Savoring the Season: Culinary Delights of Germany’s Carnival
The sensory feast of German Carnival extends far beyond sight and sound—it’s also an adventure for the taste buds. Indulging in the array of traditional foods and beverages is essential to the full Carnival experience, a delightful journey through flavors as timeless as the celebration itself.
Exactly what you’ll find at each Carnival celebration depends on where you are in the country. The food and drink can vary just like the celebrations. The items recommended below may not be available everywhere.
Step into the festive streets and you’ll be greeted with the sweet aroma of ‘Mutzenmandeln,’ the deep-fried pastry that melts in your mouth, its powdery sugar coating a contrast to the crisp bite of each treat. Stalls lined with ‘Berliner’—jam-filled doughnuts sprinkled with sugar—vie for your attention next to vendors offering savory ‘Reibekuchen,’ crispy potato pancakes typically served with apple sauce.
No less essential is the ‘Krapfen,’ a Carnival staple similar to doughnuts but with a richer variety of fillings and toppings, from the traditional apricot jam to contemporary chocolate and vanilla. To wash down these delicacies, ‘Kölsch,’ the local beer of Cologne, flows freely, its light, crispness a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the festival fare.
As evening unfolds and the chill sets in, you might find comfort in a steaming mug of ‘Glühwein,’ a spiced mulled wine that warms you from the inside out, the spices mingling with the air, becoming as much a part of Carnival as the costumes and parades. For the non-alcoholic palate, ‘Kinderpunsch,’ the child-friendly version of mulled wine, offers a sweet and spicy treat that holds its own in the festive atmosphere.
Let us not forget, Carnival is also a time for a hearty feast, and for this, the traditional ‘Himmel und Äd’—a dish made from black pudding, mashed potatoes, and applesauce—provides a robust link to German heritage. It’s a dish that truly embodies the soul of the region, connecting the reveller with the very soil that nurtures these ingredients.
As Carnival caters to the senses, make sure to savor each bite, each sip, as these culinary traditions are as much a part of the festive tapestry as the parades and fanfare. Each flavor not only tantalizes the palate but also bonds the reveller to the historical and cultural essence of this season of excess and enjoyment.
Music and Merrymaking: The Sounds of Celebration
Amidst the visual kaleidoscope of German Carnival lies its beating heart—the music. A medley of traditional tunes and contemporary beats, the soundscape of Carnival is as integral to the festivities as the parades and costumes. It is the music that sets the tempo of the celebration, inviting you, the reveler, to step into the dance of a community united in festivity.
From the swelling brass bands that energize the parade routes to the boisterous sing-alongs in packed beer tents, the music of Carnival is diverse and pervasive. In the Rhineland, you’ll find yourself swept up by the infectious rhythms of ‘Karnevalsmusik.’ This genre, specific to the season, mixes local folk melodies with pop and rock, creating an eclectic soundtrack that can get even the most reluctant of dancers tapping their feet.
As you wander the thronging streets, the ‘Schlager’ hits—a form of popular German music—reverberate through the air. Attendees, linked arm in arm, resonate with folk songs whose choruses know no stranger. The lyrics often speak of love, longing, and the joy of living; sentiments that bond the gathered masses and echo the light-hearted spirit of Carnival.
Dive into a more traditional setting, and you might encounter the ‘Guggenmusik,’ especially in the south-west regions of Germany. Characterized by brass and percussion, these cacophonous ensembles perform raucous, often intentionally off-key, renditions of songs, adding a layer of humor and spirited fun to their performances. This dissonant harmony is a beloved feature of the ‘Swabian-Alemannic’ Fastnacht, a nod to the historic.
Beyond the organized chaos of parades and performance stages is the spontaneous merrymaking that bubbles up in corners and squares. Accordion players, drum circles, and amateur singers seize upon the collective high spirits, their impromptu sessions inviting passersby to pause and revel in the moment.
In the end, whether it’s a well-rehearsed concert in Cologne or an ad-hoc alleyway performance in Mainz, the music of Carnival has one unwavering intent—to bring people together in a shared, exuberant soundtrack.
Joining the Fun: How to Dress and Party like a Local
Stepping into the whirlwind of German Carnival requires more than just being a spectator; it’s about immersion, participation and celebrating like one of the locals. To truly join the fun, dressing the part and embracing the revelry are paramount.
Start with the attire: forget subtlety, for Carnival is the time to be bold and expressive with your costume. Festive dress ranges from the whimsically hilarious to elaborate historical and fantasy garb. Peek into the local costume shops or street markets for inspiration, and don’t shy away from accessories like masks, wigs, and face paint.
Remember, the goal is not to outdo the locals in extravagance but to blend in with their uninhibited joy. If a full costume feels too much, even a simple hat or a painted face can make you part of the celebration.
Next, learn the local customs. Every region has its rituals, and showing that you’ve taken the time to respect and understand them will endear you to your fellow revelers. Whether it’s chanting the right cheer or performing the quirky dance moves that go along with the local tunes, these small acts demonstrate your willingness to be part of the community.
Furthermore, pace yourself. Carnival days are marathons, not sprints. The days can be long, often starting with parades in the morning and not winding down until the late-night street parties fade. Savor the local delicacies and imbibe the regional drinks, but do so in moderation. The real pleasure of Carnival lies not in excess but in the sustained enjoyment and shared experiences.
Above all, engage with the festivities with an open heart. Be ready to catch sweets thrown from parades, sing along with the songs, dance in the streets, and strike up conversations with locals. German Carnival is about warmth and conviviality, an opportunity to dissolve the barriers between locals and visitors, creating an inclusive space where everyone belongs to the celebration.
The Heart of the Festivity: Iconic Carnival Locations Not to Miss
Within the vibrant sprawl of Germany’s Carnival, there are epicenters of jubilation that beckon with the promise of unforgettable festivities. These iconic locations are the heart of the celebration, each pulsating with its distinct energy and traditions.
If you are traveling to Germany specifically for Carnival, these are the places to visit.
Cologne: The Carnival Capital
Cologne is the jewel in the crown of German Carnival, a city that becomes synonymous with exuberance each festive season. The ‘Kölner Karneval’ is a world-renowned event where the streets become a swirling sea of color and sound.
Don’t miss the Rosenmontag (Rose Monday) parade—a spectacle that boasts elaborate floats and groups of costumed revelers who perform throughout the city’s historic center.
Click here to read more about Cologne.
Düsseldorf: Satire and Splendor
Not to be outdone, Düsseldorf offers a Carnival spirit edged with a sharp sense of humor. Their parades are famed for satirical floats that spare no one in their mockery. It’s a place where laughter reigns supreme, and the boundaries of jest are pushed to delight the masses.
The ‘Kö-Treiben,’ the merrymaking on Königsallee, Düsseldorf’s main boulevard, is a highlight not to be overlooked.
Click here to read more about Düsseldorf.
Mainz: The Fasching Fortress
In Mainz, Fastnacht is the time-old tradition, where the Fastnachtsumzug (Carnival parade) on Shrove Tuesday stands out. Here, you’ll see magnificent floats and costumed groups weaving through the city, creating a brilliant tapestry of folklore and contemporary critique.
Mainz remains a stronghold of Fasching, where pageantry and revelry intermingle seamlessly.
Rottweil: The Historical Fastnacht
For those yearning for a more historical experience, Rottweil’s ‘Fastnacht’ is unmatched. Scheduling a visit here means seeing the ‘Narrensprung,’ an age-old parade replete with participants donning carved wooden masks (‘Larven’) and traditional attire.
This jump into history showcases a side of Carnival steeped in mystique and ancestral pride.
Munich: Bavaria’s Fasching Fest
Munich’s Fasching festival illuminates the Bavarian take on Carnival, blending the region’s strong heritage with a zest for life.
The ‘Tanz der Marktfrauen,’ or the Dance of the Market Women, in the Viktualienmarkt, is the scene to witness. Here, costumed vendors put on a dance show that captures the lighthearted essence of Bavarian Fasching.
Click here to read more about Munich.
Each of these places offers a unique window into the heart of Germany’s Carnival festivities. Whether you’re drawn to the communal laughter of Düsseldorf, the historic echoes of Rottweil’s parades, the unrivaled scale of Cologne’s celebrations, the cultural criticism of Mainz, or the local charm of Munich’s dances, you’re guaranteed to find the vibrant pulse of Carnival.
Carnival Off the Beaten Path: Lesser-Known Celebrations Worth Visiting
While the high-profile Carnivals in Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Mainz grab the headlines, there’s a whole other world of Carnival to explore in the quieter corners of Germany. These lesser-known celebrations offer the perfect opportunity to experience Carnival with a more local, intimate atmosphere.
Braunschweig: The North’s Best-Kept Secret
Braunschweig hosts what is proudly referred to as Northern Germany’s biggest Carnival parade. It’s a family-friendly affair, with a festive atmosphere that harks back to centuries of tradition.
The city comes alive with floats, dancers, and musicians, offering a spirited yet more relaxed alternative to the bigger city extravaganzas.
Cottbus: The Sorbian Carnival
Head east to Cottbus to witness the unique ‘Zampern,’ a traditional Lusatian custom part of the Sorbs’ Carnival celebration.
Accompanied by music, participants go from house to house collecting eggs, bacon, and money to prepare for the big parade. It’s a fascinating blend of Slavic and German Carnival customs, offering insight into the multicultural tapestry of the region.
Baden-Württemberg: A Swabian-Alemannic Affair
In the southwestern region of Baden-Württemberg, you can experience ‘Fastnacht’ with a local twist. Small towns like Elzach, Schramberg, and Villingen offer a glimpse into age-old traditions, with hand-carved wooden masks and historical costumes that are part of the Swabian-Alemannic Fastnacht.
Here, the focus is on customs that date back to pagan times, offering a uniquely mystical Carnival experience.
Osnabrück: Night of the Witch
Every February, Osnabrück transforms with its ‘Hexen- und Teufelstanz,’ or Witches and Devils Dance. The night parade brings out an array of spooky costumes, harking back to the city’s medieval witch trials.
It’s a uniquely themed event that brings out a darker yet playful side of Carnival.
Bremen: Samba Carnival
Drawing influences from across the sea, Bremen’s Samba Carnival is a colorful, rhythmic, and high-energy event, showcasing the influence of Brazilian culture.
Coming alive with samba beats, this festival features dancers and musicians in elaborate costumes, weaving through the streets and bringing an international flair to German Carnival traditions.
Click here to read more about Bremen.
Each of these off-the-beaten-path celebrations offers a distinct local flavor and a chance to connect with the community on a different level. There’s something extraordinary about being one of the few foreigners amongst the local revelers — it’s an immersive experience where genuine cultural exchange happens effortlessly.
A Family Affair: Experiencing Germany’s Carnival with Children
German Carnival is not only a feast for the overzealous adult reveler; it’s a multi-generational celebration where children find just as much delight. Experiencing Carnival with children not only nourishes their curiosity about traditions and cultures but also sows the seeds for joyful memories that will last a lifetime.
Kinderumzug: The Children’s Parade
Almost every town with a Carnival celebration hosts a ‘Kinderumzug,’ a parade specifically designed for families and children. In cities like Cologne and Mainz, these parades are particularly spectacular, offering a kaleidoscope of floats and costumes scaled for the younger audience.
It’s a day when little princes and princesses, pirates and dragons roam the streets, and children’s laughter competes with the melodies of the marching bands.
Family-Friendly Sessions
Beyond the parades, family-friendly sessions known as ‘Sitzungen’ offer a blend of comical skits, music, and dance performances tailored for both adults and children to enjoy.
These events usually take place in large halls or tents and provide a warm, safe environment where families can enjoy the Carnival spirit together.
Sweet Treats and Carnival Games
Many market squares are transformed into wonderlands for children, dotted with stands that sell sweet treats like cotton candy, popcorn, and Carnival-specific goodies.
Traditional games, face-painting booths, and merry-go-rounds add to the kid-friendly atmosphere, ensuring there’s plenty of interactive fun to keep the little ones entertained.
Learning Through Experience
For those looking for an educational angle, Carnival is an excellent time for children to learn about German history and traditions. Many local museums and cultural centers offer workshops and interactive exhibits in the lead-up to the festivities, providing engaging learning opportunities.
Tips on Enjoying Germany’s Carnival Fervor
Venturing into the whirlwind of Germany’s Carnival can be both exhilarating and overwhelming for the curious traveler. To fully savor the festivities and navigate the celebrations with ease, consider the following tips carefully crafted to enhance your Carnival journey.
1. Plan Ahead
Carnival events, especially in the larger cities, draw huge crowds, and accommodation can fill up fast. Book your hotel rooms or Airbnb well in advance.
Click here to look for accommodation now.
Also, familiarize yourself with the event schedules as many cities have different key events and specialty days. Knowing the ‘when’ and ‘where’ in advance will help you maximize your enjoyment.
2. Dress Accordingly
Not all Carnival celebrations require full costumes, but dressing up can significantly enrich your experience. Simple additions like masks, hats, or colorful attire can help you feel part of the festivities.
Importantly, regardless of your chosen attire, remember to dress warmly, as February can be quite chilly, especially if you are outdoors for long periods.
3. Respect the Etiquette
Immerse yourself in the joy, but also be mindful of local customs and etiquette. Be respectful when photographing participants—ask for permission if possible.
When indulging in alcoholic beverages, do so conscientiously. It’s important to maintain a sense of decorum, even in the midst of a party atmosphere.
4. Learn a Few Phrases
A little German can go a long way in enriching your Carnival experience. Phrases like “Alaaf” or “Helau”—local Carnival greetings in Cologne and Düsseldorf respectively—can bridge gaps and endear you to the locals.
Many revelers will appreciate your attempts to speak their language and engage in the fun.
5. Embrace Local Traditions
Each region celebrates Carnival differently. Take part in the specific traditions that each locale offers from the ‘Krapfen’ eating in Bavaria to the ‘Narrenruf’ (jesters’ call) in Baden-Württemberg.
Engaging with these customs gives you an authentic taste of the diversity within German Carnival.
6. Practice Crowd Safety
With streets crowded and the revelry at a peak, it’s essential to stay alert. Keep an eye on your belongings, stay aware of your surroundings, and set meeting points should you get separated from your group.
Most importantly, follow the guidance of safety personnel and respect any barriers or parade boundaries set up for your protection.
7. Take Breaks
The energy of Carnival can be non-stop, so schedule some downtime.
Find a café or restaurant away from the busiest streets when you need a breather. It’ll also give you the chance to reflect and savor the experiences you’ve been collecting.
8. Explore Beyond the Parades
Finally, while the parades are a major draw, there’s much more to explore. Attend a Carnival ball, witness a ‘Sitzung’, or delve into the local street food scene.
Your most memorable moment might not be at the main event but in the smaller, more intimate festivities that pepper the Carnival landscape.
As the confetti is swept from the streets and the last echoes of brass bands fade into the crisp German air, it’s clear that Carnival has once again left an indelible mark on the cultural tapestry of Germany. From the lively parades in Cologne to the satirical floats in Mainz, each festivity reflects a time-honored tradition of joy and revelry that transcends the cold, winter days, uniting Germans in a shared spirit of humor and humanity.
Indeed, the Carnival season is more than just a pre-Lenten celebration; it is a testament to the enduring power of community and the resilience of festivity in the face of modern challenges. As the costumes are packed away and normalcy returns, the laughter and memories forged during these vibrant days remain, a colorful reminder of the irrepressible German spirit that will eagerly await the next year’s call to “Helau” and “Alaaf!”
Considering Oktoberfest? Don’t miss our full guide to Oktoberfest here or Cannstatter Volksfest here. You can also find all our travel guides to Southern Germany here and German Festivals here.
