Hundreds of thousands attend Women’s Carnival in Germany

Despite the rain and storm, people in vibrant costumes flooded the streets of Cologne to attend the Women’s Carnival

Despite rain and thunderstorms, hundreds of thousands of people flooded the streets of Cologne on Feb. 8 to celebrate Women’s Carnival Day, donning vibrant costumes and embracing the festive spirit. The event, known as the Fifth Season Carnival, extended its joyful atmosphere to neighboring cities along the Rhine River in Germany.

The carnival celebrations, deeply rooted in the traditions of Catholic communities, particularly those residing around the Rhine Basin, kick off annually at 11:11 on the 11th day of the 11th month. These festivities are observed in cities like Cologne, Düsseldorf and Mainz. 

Due to the celebrations in the city, hundreds of thousands of people flooded the streets, prompting authorities to close many roads to traffic, causing significant disruptions in transportation.

After the carnival, a 40-day “fasting” period called “Fastenzeit” will begin, during which Christians do not consume meat and meat products.

Source: Newsroom & Anadolu Agency