A platform with the figures of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian dictator Vladimir Putin in Cologne, 3 March 2025. Photo: Thilo Schmuelgen/Reuters
The famous Rhine Carnival has started in Germany, turning Cologne into an epicentre of frenzied festivities and colourful traditions every year. In 2025, the main festivities began on 27 February, the so-called “Women’s Thursday”, and will last until 5 March, ending on “Ash Wednesday”.
Cologne Carnival is not just a festival, but a deeply rooted tradition that dates back to 1220. Since then, the festival has survived attempts to ban it during the Napoleonic occupation and restrictions by Prussian kings, but each time it has returned with renewed vigour.
It was in Cologne in 1823 that the first organising committee of the Festkomitee des Kölner Karnevals was established, which still manages the entire process today, from approving the topics of satirical platforms to preparing the Triumvirate, the main characters of the carnival: The Prince, the Peasant and the Maiden.
The holiday begins symbolically on 11 February at 11:11 am, but it reaches its peak in late winter, when tens of thousands of people in costume take to the streets. The student Latin Quarter adds a special flavour, where young people throw loud parties and the city authorities are forced to increase security measures.
During the carnival, there are many balls, masquerades, concerts and theatrical performances. A special place is occupied by the traditional meetings of the carnival guards, which are always held under the leadership of a presidium of 11 people – a symbolic number for a carnival.
Social events have also become an integral part of the celebrations: The triumvirate and its entourage visit hospitals, schools, nursing homes and even prisons, bringing the spirit of carnival to those places where it is most needed.
In 2023, the Cologne Carnival celebrated its 200th anniversary as an organised celebration, and today it continues to be the main symbol of joy, freedom and humour, despite all the challenges of the times.
This year’s slogan, as always, was kept secret until the last moment, but it is already clear that Cologne will once again show how to celebrate life.
