Off the beaten path: Cologne Carnival
At 11 minutes past 11 on the 11th of the 11th month, Cologne kicks off the European party season (AKA carnival season) with one of the best celebrations in Europe. Think Oktoberfest meets Halloween, complete with epic costumes, beer and brats.
It’s one crazy party and not to be missed if you’re looking for something really unique. But rewind 24 hours and you’re in a small city rich in culture, art and history. A great place to visit if you’re looking for an accessible, affordable view off the beaten path in Germany. Cologne is easily reached by trains from Amsterdam, Paris and Berlin. Once there, the city is incredibly walkable, offers great food and drink, and let’s not forget the shopping. There’s also the legendary gothic cathedral.
But, if you’re going to attend carnival, you’ve got to go prepared. That means picking up an epic costume at Cologne’s massive im karneval, Deiters.
Plan to spend at least 2+ hours here. You don’t want to be rushed. Enjoy not only browsing the thousands of insanely well made costumes for adults (and children) for your perfect fit, but have fun just looking at the sheer variety and craftsmanship of these outfits. And they are AFFORDABLE to boot! From freakishly real looking police, FBI, and SWAT gear, to renaissance and masquerade, to traditional German lederhosen and dirndls, and everything in between. Deiters is by far the BEST costume shop I’ve ever been in.
I bought a beautiful dirndl as my German souvenir and I absolutely love it!
One other thing you should know about Deiters is the legendary clown mascot. For those who grew up watching Poltergeist, tread lightly. He really resembles the murderous beast. But apparently he’s been around a lot longer. My husband geeked out and bought a vest with Deiters clown all over print. I won’t go near it.
Photo credit: Deiters
When you’re ready, head to Heumarkt, in the historic centre of Cologne. Be prepared for drunkenness. Germans love to party. But what’s so fab about drunk Germans is that they are very happy, loving drunks. Don’t be surprised if you’re offered food and beverage by other merrymakers. And expect to make some new friends by the end of the day.
After the sun goes down, the party continues in the bars and night clubs throughout the city. Bouncing from place to place is fun, and with so many different venues on offer, you’ll be sure to end up in the one you were meant to. This is a party in which you are best served by going with the flow and just cutting loose. Enjoy the ride and it will be a memorable one.
