Contents - Cologne Convention Bureau

“Kölle Alaaf” (“Cologne over all!”)! Nothing can separate Cologne and its beloved carnival. This
crazy celebration has been around almost as long as the city itself. Traditional “Kölsch” culture
and open-minded multiculturalism come together during Cologne’s carnival. Natives sway to the
music with tourists, long-time residents and carnival fans from around the world. The highlight is
the Rose Monday parade, which draws over one million spectators each year.
The delicious scent of roasted almonds and hot mulled wine fills the streets of Cologne from
November until Christmas Eve. Seven Christmas markets with different themes, create the holiday
feeling in Cologne, offering their handcrafted products, nibbles and tradition al gifts from the
region. Christmas shopping in Co logne is therefore a delight throughout the entire Advent period,
as is confirmed by the thousands of visitors who come from neighbouring countries.
Colognians know the true meaning of the term “ars vivendi”. The city has a wide variety of
colourful leisure activities and lifestyles, all of which make for unforgettable experiences – both
day and night: Relax and soak in the panorama on a cruise on the Rhine, an excursion from the
Rheinpark to the Cologne Zoo by Cologne´s Rhine Cable Car or to the glorious Flora. In the evening
visitors can enjoy a cocktail or a local beer, Kölsch, in the cosy student area “Kwatier Latäng” or the
trendy Belgian Quarter. Don’t miss the “Lange Nacht” (Long Night) when the city’s theatres and
museums stay open until late or emotional moments at the spectacular firework display “Kölner
Lichter” (Cologne Lights), which illuminates the Rhine every year.
The city has so much more to offer. Literature, parks and green spaces, spas and wellness oases,
beer gardens, clubs and hot spots, high streets and shopping malls, the “Phantasialand” theme
park in Brühl, excursions to surrounding areas ... the possibilities are endless.
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