Every year in the week before Lent, Cologne descends into a state of chaos when the Carnival festival takes over the city. Fuelled by the local Kölsch brew, schnapps and joyous music, the city descends into a mad week-long celebration of life, love and the city. The music plays an integral part in the festival and Carnival bands produce one hit after another only for this occasion. Be prepared to link arms with strangers and sway to and fro to the music. It’s a lot more fun if you have heard some of the biggest hits before, even if you may struggle to even comprehend the essence of each song. Here are 15 of the songs you should know this season.
Cat Ballou – Et Jitt Kei Wood
Brings – Kösche Jung
Kasalla – Alle Jläser Huh
Brings – Polka Polka Polka
Kasalla – Stadt met K
Räuber – Dat es Heimat
Paveier – Leev Marie
Bläck Fööss – Drink doch eine met
Querbeat – Nie mehr Fastelovend
Kasalla – Pirate
De Höhner – 1. FC Köln Hymne
Bläck Fööss – In unsrem Veedel
Brings – Superjeilezick
Bläck Fööss – Mer losse d’r Dom en Kölle
Cat Ballou – Hück steiht de Welt still
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