Kölner Karneval (Cologne Carnival) is Germany’s most famous and exuberant Carnival celebration, transforming the city into a week-long street party of music, costumes, and revelry. While the Carnival season officially begins on November 11th, the main festivities take place from 12–18 February 2026, culminating in the spectacular Rosenmontag parade. Throughout the week, Cologne bursts with parades, masked balls, and spontaneous street celebrations, echoing with the joyful cry of “Kölle Alaaf!”. Blending tradition, humor, and Rhineland spirit, the Cologne Carnival is a vibrant expression of freedom, creativity, and community that defines the city’s cultural soul.
Start with a quick trip form. Weekend in Cologne or a Germany route—we’ll plan Rosenmontag parade & Weiberfastnacht, smart vantage points & timing, and a walkable stay near the route/Altstadt.
Prefer to talk it through? Book a free intro call.
DATES & TIMES
• Dates: 12–18 February 2026 (Thursday–Wednesday).
• Key days: Weiberfastnacht Thu 12 Feb (street carnival starts 11:11 at Alter Markt/Heumarkt); Carnival Sunday 15 Feb; Rosenmontag parade Mon 16 Feb; Shrove Tuesday 17 Feb; Ash Wednesday 18 Feb — see City tourism and City dates.
• Rosenmontagszug: Grandstand ticketing via Festkomitee; exact 2026 details not yet published—check official page nearer the date: Rosenmontagszug 2026.
• The exact timetable publishes annually; follow the evolving Program listings.
LOCATION
• City centre focus: Old Town (Alter Markt, Heumarkt) and along the Rosenmontag parade route — overview on the Official site.
• Map: Alter Markt, 50667 Köln — Open in Google Maps.
• Getting there: Use public transport (KVB/DB); city guidance on access and safety, incl. glass ban zones, via City information.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Free entry: Street carnival areas are free to access; grandstand places for the Rosenmontagszug are paid and sold through the Festkomitee — see Rosenmontagszug 2026.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Glass ban: In designated zones (Old Town/Zülpicher area) during carnival — check current rules from the City of Cologne.
• Public transport: Expect additional services and crowd control; use KVB/DB for fastest travel to Innenstadt.
• Family tips: Veedels parades run across districts; watch listings on the Neighbourhood parades page.
Tell us your dates, who’s coming, and what else you’d like to see. We’ll suggest a Germany route that includes the Kölner Karneval at the right moment, with realistic travel days and comfortable home bases.
Prefer to start with a call? Book a free intro call.