Cologne | Carnival

The Cologne Carnival officially kicks off always at 11:11 AM on November 11th — a time also referred to as the "Fifth Season."

When this specific day and time arrive, people stop whatever they are doing — whether at work, at school, or right out on the street — and let out the battle cry of Cologne’s revelers: "Kölle Alaaf!"

They celebrate in costume, handing out sweets to everyone around. It is a time of pure joy.

In Heumarkt — a beautiful square in Cologne — bands are already taking their positions for the grand opening festivities.

The Carnival festivities are suspended only during the Advent and Christmas seasons; however, they resume in full force after the New Year and continue right up until Ash Wednesday. You simply cannot miss it! And if you are planning to visit Cologne during Carnival, don't be surprised to see people in costume on the streets, heading to work in broad daylight — it is a very common sight, especially since the only official holiday in the Cologne region falls on Monday, known as Rosenmontag.

The main thing is simply to enjoy this season, which is considered one of the most joyful and colorful times of the year.