Germany's Carnival season known as the “Fifth Season”. Is a vibrant explosion of satire, community, and ancient tradition. While the rest of the world prepares for spring, major German cities like Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Mainz transform into hubs of "organised merriment".
The Colorful History of German Karneval: A Journey Through the "Fifth Season" In Germany.
Call it Karneval, Fasching, or Fastnacht. This annual explosion of costumes, parades, and satire is one of Germany’s oldest and most beloved traditions.
But why do Germans dress as Prussian soldiers or scurry around in frightening wooden masks? Let’s dive into the fascinating history of how this party began.
1. Ancient Origins: Chasing Away Winter
Long before it was a Christian holiday, the roots of Karneval began in pagan rituals. Germanic tribes would use festivities each year to welcome spring and chase off the cold.
They wore scary masks and made loud noises to spook the cold away. A tradition you can still see today in the Swiss Swabian-Alemannic Fastnacht. Where "witches" and "devils" roam the streets.
2. The Christian "Farewell to Meat"
As Christianity spread, the church absorbed these customs. The word "Karneval" likely comes from the Latin carne vale, meaning "farewell to meat". A last party before the 40-day fasting period of Lent began on Ash Wednesday. Karneval Became the final chance to indulge in food, drink, and "sinful" behavior.
3. Medieval "World Upside Down"
During the Middle Ages, Karneval was a time of role reversal. For a few days, the strict social order flipped: peasants were "crowned" as princes, and commoners were allowed to mock those in power—bishops and kings alike—without fear of punishment. This spirit of satire remains a cornerstone of the modern festival.
4. The 19th Century: Mocking the Military
The modern Karneval in Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Mainz was born in the 1820s as a form of political protest. The region was under strict Prussian rule. Locals mocked the "stuffy" Prussian military. By wearing colorful, exaggerated 19th-century uniforms and powdered wigs. today, they are making fun of old generals.
Regional Differences at a Glance
Karneval (NRW): Famous for massive parades on Rose Monday, satirical floats, and the "Prince, Peasant, and Maiden"
Fastnacht (Southwest): Known for traditional, often eerie wooden masks and animal furs.
Fasching (Bavaria & Saxony): Often features grand costume balls and the "last serving" of alcohol before the fast.
The festival begins on November 11th at 11:11 AM, but the true "Crazy Days" happen in the week leading up to Ash Wednesday.