Thousands of people gathered on Sunday, March 2, 2025, for the vibrant Fastnachtszug (carnival parade) in Ziegelhausen, reveling under clear skies and festive spirits. The event celebrates the fun and tradition of the German carnival season, drawing attendees of all ages eager to embrace the joyful atmosphere.
Families, friends, and carnival enthusiasts lined the streets of Ziegelhausen, where colorful groups, including lively witches’ troupes, entertained the crowd. Many showed their support for the participants adorned in exquisite costumes, showcasing the creativity and community spirit central to the celebration. The shared laughter and cheers created a remarkable experience as fellow attendees united for the festivities.
The carnival feeling wasn’t confined to Ziegelhausen alone. Known for its jubilant performances throughout the season, the Kölner band Domstürmer exemplifies the heart of this cultural celebration. Founded in 2006, the band, famous for its catchy songs performed mainly in Kölner dialect, has become synonymous with the carnival experience. With around 220 performances scheduled this season, including attending both ladies’ events and public celebrations, the group is on the go from one event to another.
At one ladies' event held earlier on the same day, five men from Domstürmer stood out, clad simply in black and white, contrasting sharply with the vivid costumes of the predominately female audience who donned flamboyant outfits like hippies and pirates. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as the band took to the stage to perform one of their iconic songs, "Ohne Dom, ohne Rhing, ohne Sunnesching." The audience responded enthusiastically, joining in the singing and clapping to the rhythm.
Singer Micky Nauber, who often refrains from eating before performances to prevent his stomach from interfering with his singing, shared, "Das ist natürlich ein schönes Gefühl. Das Ego freut sich, man fühlt sich direkt ein paar Jahre jünger.” This lively spirit and dedication are mirrored across the band as they engage enthusiastically with fans, taking selfies and signing autographs during interactions.
Transitioning from one performance to another, they drove through the streets of Cologne, gearing up for their next gig at the Prunksitzung of the Kölner Haie, the local ice hockey club. The rapid-paced changes between events showcase the band's commitment to keeping the carnival spirit alive. Despite the hustle, the joy from the crowd offers fresh motivation with each performance. During their next set, they captivated another audience of about 700, consisting of hospital staff, illustrating the diverse range of events they participate in.
While the stage at the hospital setting was smaller compared to their previous performances, the energy was no less spirited. Attendees sang along, and for Nauber, the need to keep the audience engaged is always top of mind. Dancing alongside Sharky, the team mascot for Kölner Haie, Nauber highlighted how the carnival environment transforms every performance, stating, "Es war super!" as he wrapped up their set.
The intense period runs until Ash Wednesday, with plans for even more performances leading up to the culmination of the celebrations. Despite the tiring schedule, Nauber explained, "Verzichten wollen würden sie darauf trotzdem niemals." The dedication to carnival culture energizes the performers and the crowds. Whether through spontaneous dance, sing-alongs, or costume displays, this year’s carnival has demonstrated just how deeply ingrained these festivities are within German culture.
With the Fastnachtszug capturing the vivacity of community spirit, numerous events to come promise to keep the enthusiasm alive as the towns and cities across Germany gear up for more parades and performances. Together, these elements form the beautiful mosaic of German carnival celebrations, reminding participants and viewers alike of the joy and unity these traditions bring each year.