The Karnevalsumzug is a procession that takes place during the main week of the Karneval season.

Taking place in many German towns, these involve a number of floats from local clubs and societies that often represent current political issues.  Particularly long processions can be seen in towns such as Cologne, Düsseldorf, Mainz and Hamburg.

Many floats throw sweets towards the on-lookers, causing the children to scramble after them.  There are also bands that play Guggemusik – which sounds somthing like modern hits being played by a brass band with steel drums.

To hear a simple explanation and a short discussion in German, listen to the podcast:

(Press the “play” button to listen to the podcast)

Download the MP3 file

A Karnevalssitzung is the name given to an event that takes place during the Karneval season, usually in the evening.

It takes place in a large hall and is organised by a Karnevalsverein.  Although this could be anytime between 11th November and Shrove Tuesday, it is more likely to be in the last week of the season.

During the evening there are performances by dance troups, Büttenredner – a sort of comedian who comments on current, often poltical, events, and a lot of singing.  The guests sit at long tables to eat and drink.

Chairing the event are the Elferrat.  The word Elf, refers not only to the number eleven – the carnival number, but also to an abbreviation of the motto of the French Revolution: Egalité, Liberté, Fraternité.

To hear a simple explanation and a short discussion in German, listen to the podcast:

(Press the “play” button to listen to the podcast)

Download the MP3 file

Rosenmontag is the last Monday before Lent. In the main areas where Karneval or Fasching is celebrated, there are parades on this day and many companies give their employees the day off.

There are different stories as to how the unusual name came about. One says that it developed from Rasenden Montag, because everything is so mad on that day. Another says that it is the day after Rosensonntag, the day on which the Pope used to give someone a golden rose.

Traditionally people eat Berliner on this day – a jam-filled doughnut.

To hear a simple explanation and a short discussion in German, listen to the podcast:

(Press the “play” button to listen to the podcast)

Download the MP3 file

Subscribe to the podcast