If Cologne and Düsseldorf are too far away, or if you want a Karneval trip outside of Paderborn. Here are some more options.
Osnabrück: The Big "Ossensamstag" Parade
© Kaisen Photo
- The main event in Osnabrück happens this Saturday, February 14th.
- The Parade: The "Ossensamstag" parade starts at 2:11 PM. It features over 75 groups, 30 decorated floats, and nearly 2,000 participants.
- Route: It begins at the Neue Mühle restaurant (Kollegienwall 16) and ends in Hasestraße.
- Family Zone: Look for the special family zone at Ledenhof, featuring a "Hoppetosse" play area for kids.
- The Party: After the parade, there is a large street party in front of the Town Hall starting around 3:30 PM with live music.
Travel Tip: Many local streets in the city center will be closed for the parade. It is best to use public buses or park in garages outside the immediate ring road.
Münster: Parades and "Geisternacht"
© City of Münster/Michael Möller
- Münster celebrates with different events in various neighborhoods this weekend.
- Amelsbüren: On Saturday, February 14, there is a children’s Karneval and the "Geisternacht" (Ghost Night) party in the festival tent.
- Sunday Parade: The Amelsbüren parade starts on Sunday, February 15 at 2:11 PM.
- Travel Tip: For the Amelsbüren events, taking the local train (RB66/RB89) from Münster Central Station is a great way to avoid parking issues.
- Looking Ahead: The massive Rosenmontag (Rose Monday) parade in Münster's city center will be on February 16 starting at 12:11 PM.
Quick Tips for Families
- Dress Up: It is tradition for both kids and adults to wear costumes!
- Bring a Bag: During parades, people on floats throw candy (called Kamelle). Bring a bag or a small bucket to catch treats!
- Shout the Magic Word: To get candy, you need to shout the local greeting. In these cities, the most common shout is "Helau!"