Carnival with a twist

Just before it was time for the annual 'Oche Alaaf' in Aachen, the Carnival in Quebec was already over. Between February 4th and 12th, the world's largest winter carnival took place here, just like every year. As an 'Öcher Jong', I can't take this seriously, especially when I know the Carnival in Cologne. The Carnival here is much smaller and has as much to do with a clown as a clown has with sadness. Nevertheless, the different winter attractions gave the city a special atmosphere and I could also spot a familiar face among the visitors. There is also a small parade, which had to be postponed by one day due to the bad weather conditions, just like the opening of the Carnival. In addition to ice climbing and tire sliding, the highlight was the ice palace, which is built anew every year. There is also the annual canoe race on the frozen St. Lawrence River, which we unfortunately missed. Admission to the Carnival sites can only be obtained with the so-called 'Bonhomme' (translated: Good Man). It is a snowman that you hang on the side of your jacket, a kind of mascot. In reality, it looks a bit like the Michelin Man. You could also order 'Caribou', a type of mulled wine made from ice shots, and try frozen maple syrup. Overall, a nice event, but I would say not worth an extra trip compared to the Carnival in Cologne.