Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Carneval in Dusseldorf

We just witnessed Carneval in Dusseldorf.  The same Carneval that is celebrated in New Orleans and Rio.  Less obscenity here, but still big crowds, public drinking/intoxication, costumes, parades, etc.  It starts on Thursday when the women raid Altstadt and cut off men's ties.  Then, non-stop party through Monday.  Saturday featured a kid's parade, which we attended for Marissa.  A little boy in the parade tripped and did a total faceplant right in front of Marissa, and got up screaming and crying.  It looked so bad Marissa started tearing up.  She received some candy and we moved on.  On Sunday, everyone gets dressed up as a clown or other costume, and gathers in Altstadt to party in the streets.  I attached pictures of a group that gathered outside our apartment door (at 9:00 am), before heading off to Altstadt.  I also attached pictures and a video of the scene in Altstadt.  Monday was a holiday, Rosenmontag (Rose Monday), which features a parade.  Maybe it should be re-named Recovery Monday.  Overall, it was a festive weekend.  We will be prepared to fully share in this event next year, including having costumes (visitors welcome).