2023 marked the 200th Anniversary of the Köln Karneval Associations! What is Fasching? And is it the same thing as Karneval? YES! Karneval / Fasching / Fastnacht all refer to the pre-Lent Season, the Fifth Season in German-speaking countries. Think of this time as the German version of Mardi Gras. The celebrations date back hundreds of years, rooted in Catholic and early…
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Karneval Berliner – How to Make Berliner
Why are Berliner / Pfannekuchen / Krapfen made during Karneval Season? Karneval is a time of exuberance before Lent’s austerity. Believers are supposed to give up tasty things like fried foods for those 40 days before Easter. So, be sure to eat all the Berliner you can BEFORE midnight on Karneval Dienstag! (Shrove Tuesday). Berliners are filled with tasty fillings…
Tanzmariechen- Those Fabulous Karneval Dancers!
Ever wonder about those beautiful dancing girls in “military uniforms” at Karneval/Fasching celebrations? They march and move in perfect synchronicity and even tumble through the air without landing on their head. But did you know that these “Tanzmariechen” or “Funkenmariechen” are more than just a pretty face and fun dance moves? Their history reaches back almost 200 years to early…
What is Weiberfastnacht? Women Kick off Karneval!
One special event sticks out in the excitement of Karneval or Fasching Season‘s parties, parades, and fun events, especially for women- Weiberfastnacht. What is Weiberfastnacht? It’s the start of street Karneval Celebrations, the day when Karneval kicks into high gear! It’s the day when women take over the party. I once arrived in Köln on Weiberfastnacht. As I emerged from…
History and Tradition of Karneval Orden
During Karneval Season, you will see people wearing military-like medals called Orden around their necks. These colorful medals, dating to the 1800s, were initially designed to mock the establishment. Today, people consider them a prestigious honor reflecting status and importance. What is the history of Karneval Orden? And how do Karneval groups carry on the traditions today? History of Karneval…