Karneval - German

Hello! I am Karneval. I am a very happy time that happens in a place called Germany. When people celebrate me, they get to play dress-up. It is so much fun! Little kids and grown-ups all wear amazing costumes. You might see a clown with a big, round, red nose. You might see someone dressed as a fluffy lion or a tall giraffe. Some people dress up like a prince with a shiny crown or a beautiful princess in a sparkly dress. The streets are full of color and happy smiles when I am here.

My most exciting part is the big parades. Big, colorful floats move slowly down the street. It is like a storybook coming to life! Some floats are built to look just like giant castles with tall towers. Other floats are shaped like funny animals, like a silly dragon or a happy pig. As the floats go by, cheerful music fills the air. Bands march along, playing loud drums and happy songs. Everyone claps their hands and dances to the music. It is a wonderful sight to see.

While the music plays and the floats roll by, people in the crowd shout special, fun words. They shout “Kamelle!” really loud. They also shout “Alaaf!” These words are a special way to ask for treats. The people riding on the big floats hear them. They smile and toss wonderful things down to the crowd. Sweet candy flies through the air for children to catch. Sometimes they even toss pretty flowers. Today, people celebrate me as a time for fun, laughter, and being silly together.