Altweiberfastnacht, or Women’s Carnival Day, set to kick off celebrations across North Rhine-Westphalia, is one of the most anticipated events on the carnival calendar. Taking place on February 27, 2025, the festivities will showcase vibrant traditions, joyful gatherings, and lively street parties. The day is marked by women, known as Möhnen, storming local town halls, bringing to life the spirit of celebration.
Festivities will commence at precisely 11:11 AM, with cities like Düsseldorf gearing up for the main event where Möhnen will burst through the doors of the Düsseldorf Town Hall, transforming the historic Altstadt (Old Town) area of the city. According to local reports, "Helau! Der Straßenkarneval steht in den Startlöchern, um 11.11 Uhr stürmen die Möhnen das Düsseldorfer Rathaus." This spirited kickoff sets the stage for days of fun, laughter, and camaraderie among locals and visitors alike.
Across North Rhine-Westphalia, other cities are preparing exciting events for the day. Krefeld, for example, will be alive with different activities throughout the city. The excitement peaks when women gather to storm the town hall at 16:11, embracing the traditional revelry and merriment this occasion has to offer. The city is known for its lively Altweiber celebrations which include various parties highlighting local culture and community spirit.
"Wenn wir Frauen erst einmal siegen, lassen wir die Männer jedoch nicht links liegen. Gemeinsam werden wir im Saale toben und mit den Männern tanzen, feiern und johlen," proclaimed representatives from the Bezirksverwaltung of Mönchengladbach, underscoring the day's theme of unity and celebration among both women and men. It’s not just about women leading; it’s about all participants coming together to rejoice.
Parties all over Krefeld include notable venues like the Krefelder Rennbahn, which hosts what they claim to be the largest Altweiber party. Starting at 16:00, guests can expect four dance areas, vibrant music from the 80s and 90s, fresh charts, and local carnival favorites. Tickets are available for as low as 9.90 euros online, making it accessible for everyone eager to celebrate.
The Kulturrampe also offers an alternative for those seeking something different. With live performances from Kommando Butterfahrt and Bexx Beer Boyz, the night promises to deliver unique entertainment with "Punk ‘n Schlager" and "Premium Drunkrock," appealing to diverse musical tastes.
Meanwhile, the city of Mönchengladbach will host Altweiber celebrations across several districts – Giesenkirchen, Odenkirchen, Gladbach, and Rheydt – offering various events for locals. The local Carnival Society will oversee festive programming, ensuring each event is filled with excitement. The festivities kick off at 14:11 on the Sonnenhausplatz in Gladbach and 16:11 at the Rheydter Markt with local bands and performers.
Celebrations include family-friendly activities as well, with opportunities for the younger generations to partake and learn about this cherished tradition. Festivities are positioned as communal and inclusive, drawing attention to cultural heritage and the sense of belonging they provide.
Altweiberfastnacht, with its rich history and vibrant expressions of community spirit, serves as the gateway to the larger carnival season. The lead-up to Rosenmontag signifies not just revelry but also the deep-rooted traditions associated with celebrating before the fasting season of Lent begins.
With each year, Altweiberfastnacht continues to uphold its significance within North Rhine-Westphalia, demonstrating just how integral these celebrations are to the community fabric. Both locals and visitors can expect lively atmospheres, hearty laughter, and memorable festivities this February.
For those wishing to participate, it is recommended to check local listings and social media for detailed schedules and ticketing information to not miss any of the fantastic events planned for Altweiberfastnacht.