Enjoy a bunch of pictures from a sunny Sunday at the carnival in Aachen. Detlev is in the middle of all this.
Confetti, candy, and costumes: The Rosenmontag parade is currently transforming the imperial city into a colorful spectacle.
Since this morning, there has been a hint of magic in the air. Armed with my camera, I walk along Theaterstraße, feeling the tingling anticipation. "Oche Alaaf!" echoes through the streets, and streamers flutter from every window.
The first floats roll by, and with them comes a wave of excitement. Prince Carnival sits high on his throne, waving majestically while his guard tosses sweets into the crowd. Children bounce like little rubber balls after the candy, adults dance, sway, and sing at the top of their lungs. My camera clicks in sync with the brass bands.
One float stands out: the "Oecher Penn" float, impressing with its artistic design. Huge papier-mâché figures draw attention, depicting historical personalities. Right behind them, the city guard's dance troupe twirls in their glittering costumes, their legs flying to the rhythm of the marching music.
Carnival in Aachen: More Than Just Tradition
For centuries, Aachen has celebrated Carnival and for good reason. As early as the Middle Ages, locals are said to have chased away winter with masks and festivities. Later, under Prussian rule, Carnival became an outlet for political satire. You can still feel this cheeky spirit today: Some floats take sharp jabs at politics, and the crowd cheers every pointed joke with loud applause.
Carnival here is different. Maybe it’s the proximity to Belgium and the Netherlands, giving the city its cosmopolitan charm.
Maybe it’s the blend of tradition and modernity, of respect and a love for mischief. Whatever it is, I feel it strongly when a complete stranger, dressed as a clown, pops a red paper nose on me and toasts with me. “To friendship!” he shouts. And me? I laugh and toast right back.
As I continue walking through the crowd, I see more and more people in very creative costumes and this will be another post.
The Rosenmontag parade in Aachen isn’t just an event. This is a feeling of being a part of the party. One that lingers, even as the last confetti is just now falling.
pic by 
@Detlev loves HIVE
