Event Details
Welcome to the Opening of Cologne Carnival 2026
On Wednesday, 11 November 2026, Cologne officially launches its famous Carnival season. Around 30,000 visitors gather from early morning at Heumarkt and the adjacent Alter Markt in the Old Town to celebrate the start of Germany's fifth season. The traditional countdown reaches its climax at exactly 11:11 AM, accompanied by a shower of confetti marking the official opening of the 2026/2027 Carnival season.
Highlights
- Official Carnival season opening at Heumarkt, hosted by the Willi-Ostermann-Gesellschaft
- Live stage program from 9:00 AM until 8:00 PM
- Famous 11:11 AM countdown with confetti shower
- Performances by Cologne's top Carnival bands
- Presentation of the new Carnival season's Dreigestirn (Prince, Peasant and Virgin)
- Two large video screens at Heumarkt, one additional screen at Alter Markt
- Live WDR television broadcast from 10:30 AM
- Numerous Carnival parties and brewery events across the city
Program
The official stage opens at 9:00 AM with live performances from Cologne's best-known Carnival artists. The biggest moment comes at exactly 11:11 AM when the new Carnival season officially begins with music and confetti. The stage program continues until 8:00 PM. Those who cannot attend in person can follow the celebrations live on WDR television from 10:30 AM until approximately 4:00 PM. After the official closing, the celebrations continue throughout Cologne's breweries and bars well into the night.
Tickets
Tickets for the official Heumarkt celebration area are available from the Willi-Ostermann-Gesellschaft at €39.00 per ticket (plus €5.00 processing fee per order). In addition, dozens of Carnival parties, traditional sessions and brewery events take place across Cologne throughout the day, offered by various Carnival clubs at different price points.
Safety & Rules
- Glass containers are strictly prohibited on the event grounds.
- Wheelbarrows, beer kegs, chairs, tables and large bags are not permitted.
- The free emergency app "Guardy" allows visitors to alert security staff directly.
- Maltese Service awareness teams are on site, recognisable by their purple vests.
- Site maps and safety information are displayed at all entrances.
Visitor Tips
- Arrive before 8:30 AM to secure access to Heumarkt before it fills up.
- Use public transportation; the KVB network is the easiest way to reach the Old Town.
- Wearing a costume is highly recommended and part of the Cologne Carnival experience.
- Dress warmly as November temperatures in Cologne can be cold and damp.
- Book accommodation several months in advance as hotels fill up quickly.
- Kölsch beer is available at drink stands directly on Heumarkt.