German Info: Karneval 2007

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Karneval 2007

If you visit a town in Germany's Rhineland or in the southwestern region during the supposedly dark days of winter you're likely to find the whole place thrown topsy-turvy. That's because it's time for Karneval of Fastnacht, depending on where you are. In the six days before Ash Wednesday, this year starting on February 15, you'll see people wearing crazy costumes, singing and dancing in the streets, hugging and kissing and throwing confetti. At school, kids will pretty much be doing as they please. Their parents may go to work, but they won't expect to get much done except partying.

Crazy Days of Karneval are Back

Women cutting off men's ties and city streets filled with elaborate, colorful parade floats are some of the traditions that mark this time of year.

Fastnacht - Festival of Fools with Strict Rules

The roots of the Swabian-Alemannic Fastnacht or carnival go as far back as the Middle Ages, with traditions differing from the Rhineland Karneval.

Rose Monday is Highpoint of the Season

The day is marked by the huge masked parades held in the cities of Cologne, Dusseldorf and Mainz, as well as in the smaller towns of the southwestern region.

Ash Wednesday Tradition