It’s karneval (or carnival) here in this part of Germany (Fastnacht in other cities, or Fasching in southern Germany, referring to the last serving of alcohol before Lent). However, it’s been karneval here since November, and it’s about to come to an end.

People had mentioned it here and there, but I guess I didn’t pay much attention to it. And being someone who likes a party, and who likes to dress up for a party, I’m now a little upset I didn’t prepare a little better.

The celebration goes back to the Middle Ages and although the end of the celebration is now related to the beginning of Lent, it started as a way to scare out the witches and demons of winter. It was also a time for political speeches and satire.

This holiday makes Groundhog Day seem normal.

I honestly get a different definition of karneval from everyone I ask. Some say it’s not religious at all. Some say it’s just a big celebration. Others attend the speeches and parties. Halloween is not so important in Germany because everyone dresses up for karneval.

There was a big parade through Frankfurt today, and even bigger celebrations took place in Mainz and Cologne. Tomorrow is Rose Monday, which is the biggest day of karneval. Come to find out, this is the first year my company is not giving us a half day tomorrow (as most companies here do). Looks like I arrived just in time to not enjoy that benefit!

Here are some pictures from the parade–huge papier mache political statements. I can’t figure out who the guy in the shower is with Angela. And I can’t figure out who the guy in the wheelchair is either. Any ideas? Obama’s sign says world police and that’s Putin on the world.