Düsseldorf Celebrates 200 Years of Carnival: How the Jecken Celebrate on 11.11
The Carnival Season Begins
On November 11, 2023, Düsseldorf will kick off its 200th anniversary carnival season with a grand celebration. The city will be transformed into a sea of colors and music as the Jecken (carnival revelers) take to the streets in their elaborate costumes. The day will be filled with parades, parties, and general merrymaking, marking the official start of the carnival season.
The Düsseldorf carnival has a long and rich history, dating back to the 19th century. The first recorded carnival celebration in the city was held in 1823, and it has since become one of the most popular and well-known carnivals in Germany. Each year, over 1 million people visit Düsseldorf during the carnival season to experience the unique atmosphere and festivities.
The Highlights of the 11.11 Celebration
The highlight of the 11.11 celebration is the traditional "Elferratsitzung" (Council of Eleven meeting). This meeting is held in the town hall and features speeches, music, and dancing. The Elferrat is a group of 11 men who are responsible for organizing the carnival festivities. They are dressed in elaborate costumes and wear large, pointed hats.
Another highlight of the day is the "Hoppeditz Erwachen" (Hoppeditz Awakening). Hoppeditz is a fictional character who represents the spirit of carnival. He is awakened from his slumber on 11.11 and gives a speech to the crowd. Hoppeditz is a symbol of the joy and revelry of carnival.
How to Celebrate Carnival in Düsseldorf
If you are visiting Düsseldorf during carnival, there are many ways to get involved in the festivities. You can watch the parades, attend parties, or simply dress up in a costume and join the revelers on the streets. Here are a few tips for celebrating carnival in Düsseldorf:
Additional Information
For more information about the Düsseldorf carnival, please visit the official website: https://www.duesseldorf.de/karneval.