Today, Karneval is a big cultural celebration where people come together to have fun and laugh. It is a time to enjoy each other’s company, wear costumes and celebrate German culture.
Karneval is connected to its environment. It is especially popular in cities along the Rhine River in western Germany, such as Cologne and Düsseldorf. Each town has its own way of celebrating. For instance, in Mannheim, we shout Ahoi! to express our excitement for the celebration, though each city has its own phrase or saying. Additionally, Karneval happens at the end of winter, right before spring begins. Since winter in Germany can be cold and gray, Karneval allows people to celebrate, have fun and look forward to the warmer days.
