Carnival president defends cheerfulness in difficult times
For Cologne Carnival President Christoph Kuckelkorn, celebrations are particularly justified in times of crisis. "We see time and again that people have a great need for carnival celebrations, especially in difficult times," Kuckelkorn told the German Press Agency. "Many people in Cologne need Fastelovend as a balance. Living customs together with friends and family is good after the crises of recent years have been very stressful. Incidentally, celebrating and showing solidarity are not mutually exclusive." It is also important to realize that carnival in Cologne is not a central event that can simply be canceled. "People celebrate here on the streets as well as in pubs or in the hobby cellar. Ultimately, everyone should decide for themselves whether and how they want to celebrate." In Cologne and other carnival strongholds, the new season begins on Saturday, 11.11.
Despite the challenges of recent years, many people in Cologne rely on the traditional Fastelovend celebrations during Carnival as a source of balance and relaxation. Nevertheless, the celebration of Carnival in Cologne extends beyond central events, with people celebrating on the streets, in pubs, and in their homes, making it a custom that's difficult to cancel entirely.
Source: www.dpa.com
