On March 4, 2025, the vibrant carnival celebrations across North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) culminate with Veilchendienstag, extending the joyous spirit initiated on Rosenmontag. This day is significant as it marks the last bursts of festivity before the fasting period begins, with various events taking place throughout the region.
Celebrations are still alive and kicking at Engel in Düsseldorf’s old town, where festivities commenced at 16:00. Düsseldorf has long been known for its lively Carnival atmosphere, and this year proves to be no different, as locals and visitors gather to revel.
One of the standout events is the Äerzebär celebration, held annually in Kommern, where participants lead the Äerzebär, a man wrapped up in over 20 kilos of pea straw, through the streets. After seven hours, the Äerzebär will be ceremonially cut out of the straw at Bleibach, and the leftover straw will be burned, creating spectacle and symbolism. This traditional event starts at 14:00, merging merriment with community support, as attendees are encouraged to donate money for local causes.
Joining Kommern's festivities are several parades across the region. Beginning at 14:11, areas such as Trier-Ruwer, Gonzerath, Konz-Oberemmel, and Mehring will host their own parades. Each of these celebrations adds to the lively atmosphere, showcasing colorful floats and enthusiastic dance troupes.
The Carnival Session 2024/25 is slowly coming to its grand finale. While people celebrate on Veilchendienstag, the following day brings the start of the fasting period, marking the close of this year’s Carnival activities.
Alongside parades and traditional events, weather plays its own role on this season’s significant day. According to the Deutscher Wetterdienst (DWD), the weather on Veilchendienstag is predicted to be spring-like and sunny, with temperatures rising to pre-spring highs of 11 to 15 degrees during the day. Although morning temperatures are below freezing, the expected sunshine will undoubtedly lift spirits among the revelers. Evening festivities will likely bring cold nights, but participants remain undeterred.
Live coverage of the excitement is also on the agenda, with subscriptions to regional broadcasts documenting the biggest parades and most colorful costumes. Anne Willmes from WDR's Local News will report live from Mönchengladbach, where the largest Veilchendienstagszug flows through the streets. This broadcast will include the carnaval diversity showcased both from the city and the larger regional parades, capturing all the festive energy and excitement.
The celebratory energy is felt through various towns, with the parade through Marsberg-Giershagen set to commence after the local event and throngs of spectators are expected to join festivities. Following these celebrations is the traditional Bacchus burning hosted by the Karnevalsgesellschaft Blau-Weiß Neheim, symbolizing the end of Carneval season as the spirit of wine, Bacchus, is set ablaze.
Traditional customs do not hold back this Veilchendienstag, as locals prepare for the village clean-up the following day on the Kirchplatz, setting the stage for community involvement and engagement even after Carnival ends. The ashes from the Bacchus burning will be scattered across the river Ruhr, and locals look forward to Bacchus making his appearance again as the Carnival season commences anew on November 11.
Throughout NRW, carnival traditions serve to unite communities, reflecting history, culture, and the joy of life. Despite the cold nights marking the end of festivities, spirits remain high as people celebrate, dance, and share laughter before parting ways from this year’s Carnival session.
Indeed, the culmination of the Carnival celebrations is more than simply ending the season; it symbolizes unity and the spirit of continuous tradition, leaving memories and eager anticipation for next time. Veilchendienstag is more than just fun; it reaffirms the community bonds forged during the spirited festivities, proving once again the enduring appeal of Carnival culture in NRW.
With excitement built around the festivities and the weather aligning favorably, participants across various communities are reminded of the shared joy, laughter, and camaraderie generated during this time of celebration, making Veilchendienstag unforgettable.