On Monday, March 3, 2025, the ARD program Hart aber fair with Louis Klamroth will not be airing as scheduled, due to the vibrant celebrations of Karneval 2025 taking place across Germany. While many viewers may have expected the usual political debates, the network has decided to shift gears entirely.
Instead of the heated discussions typically associated with Hart aber fair, which airs at 21:00, ARD will present Karneval in Köln 2025 starting at 20:15 from the renowned Festhalle in Gürzenich, Köln. This change aligns with the excitement of Rosenmontag, one of the highlights of the Karneval season, where festivities are at their peak nationwide.
This drastic programming decision was not taken lightly; it's reflective of the importance of Karneval to German culture, especially considering how this festive time brings communities together. According to ARD, "Hart aber fair is canceled due to the important social celebration taking place; ARD will instead show Karneval in Köln 2025." The evening is set to feature well-known hosts such as Guido Cantz and Bernd Stelter, promising entertainment and cultural showcases.
The entertainment will be complemented by live musical performances from popular local bands, including Höhner, Bläck Föös, and Brings. These artists are staples of the Karneval celebrations, ensuring the audience will enjoy lively music as they celebrate the carnival spirit.
This programming switch is also indicative of how ARD recognizes the significance of cultural events and their role in engaging the audience beyond political talk shows. Viewers can expect the next episode of Hart aber fair to return on Monday, March 10, 2025, at the usual time of 21:00. The details about this upcoming episode, including the topic of discussion and guest appearances, have yet to be announced.
For those who might feel the absence of their usual political discourse, the previous week’s episode of Hart aber fair featured guest Philipp Amthor, addressing the outcomes of the recent Bundestagswahl 2025, which had captivated audiences just prior to this celebratory period. Viewers can catch up on this episode and others via the ARD-Mediathek, providing them with insights and discussions they might miss during official broadcasts.
While Hart aber fair often tackles pressing political and societal issues, its absence this week serves as a reminder of the cultural traditions and celebrations inherent to German society during this festive season. Karneval stands as not just as entertainment but as the heart of social connectivity among the German people.