Fasching

Categories:: Religious
Tags:: Catholic Cultural Festivities
Where:: International
Date change rule:: Every November 11
Holiday emoji:: 🎉

Fasching, also known as Karneval or Fastnacht, ignites the festive season every November 11 at precisely 11:11 a.m. This vibrant pre-Lenten celebration, rooted in centuries of tradition, marks the countdown to the 40-day fasting period before Easter. Join the revelry by donning a costume, enjoying traditional treats, and embracing the joyous spirit of German culture.

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Expected Fasching Deals

While we await official 2027 promotions to drop, history shows that Fasching inspires a flurry of themed deals in German-speaking regions and beyond. Look for special offers from brands like Haribo on sweets and candies, Aldi and Lidl for traditional German foods and beverages, and local bakeries for Faschingskrapfen (doughnuts). Costume shops such as Party City and online retailers like Amazon often run sales on masks, wigs, and festive attire. Travel agencies and airlines like Lufthansa might offer special packages for those wishing to experience the celebrations in Germany. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as November 11 approaches.

Platform Guide for Fasching

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #Fasching. Share your favorite costume ideas, traditional Faschingskrapfen recipes, or vibrant street parade moments.

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #Fasching. Post colorful photos of your Fasching celebrations, festive decorations, or unique regional traditions.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #Fasching. Connect with others to share local event details, historical facts, or tips for celebrating.

Fasching Hero

Hans Sachs

Hans Sachs (1494–1576) was a German Meistersinger, poet, and playwright from Nuremberg. A prolific writer, he composed thousands of works, including carnival plays (Fastnachtsspiele) that satirized contemporary society. His contributions to German literature and his connection to the festive traditions of his time make him a fitting figure to represent the historical roots of Fasching.

History of Fasching

Fasching originated in the German cities of Mainz and Speyer during the early 13th Century. By 1234, the festival had already become established in the city of Cologne. In the past, Fasching was often characterized by extravagant and frivolous traditions, including handing the keys of the city to a council of fools. Activities involved noisy parades, plays, masked balls, satirical plays, and excessive or impertinent behavior. As a result of the Protestant Reformation in Europe during the 16th Century, most of these elaborate traditions died down.

However, the fun and entertaining nature of Fasching has been restored in recent times as it is marked by spectacular parades and parties all over the world. The women’s carnival is the first day of the street carnivals, known as ‘Weiberfastnacht’. On this day, women parade the streets in costumes and engage in harmless but mischievous behavior, such as cutting off men’s ties to leave only the knot. This is followed by an apologetic peck on their cheek. Rose Monday is another day of the festival where a four-mile parade is held, with members of local carnival clubs dressing up as witches, clowns, or wizards. People line the streets to watch the procession and take part in the fun.

The height of the Fasching celebrations is called Shrove Tuesday or Fat Tuesday. In Germany, the day is celebrated on a small scale but in other parts of the world, the day is spent spectacularly as people attend and take part in parades in cities such as Venice, Rio de Janeiro, and New Orleans. On Ash Wednesday, the festival comes to an end and the 40-day fasting season begins.

Fasching timeline

1200s

The Mention in ‘Parzival’

Fasching is mentioned in “Parzival,” a medieval romance written by Wolfram von Eschenbach.

1234

The City of Cologne

‘Fasching’ becomes well-established in the city of Cologne.

1517

The Reformation

The Reformation begins, bringing about a revolution in Fasching traditions.

1699

The ‘Mardi Gras’

A variant of ‘Fasching,’ ‘Mardi Gras’ is first celebrated in the American city of New Orleans.

How Businesses Can Celebrate Fasching

Local businesses, especially German restaurants and bakeries, can embrace Fasching by offering special menus featuring traditional dishes like Faschingskrapfen (jelly-filled doughnuts) and hearty German fare. Bars might host themed costume parties or offer German beers on tap. Specialty food stores can create displays of imported German chocolates, candies, and festive decorations. Consider a ‘Best Mask’ competition for customers or a special discount for those who arrive in costume to foster a lively atmosphere.

Fasching FAQs

When is Fasching?

Fasching 2026 begins on Wednesday, November 11, at 11 minutes past 11 a.m., kicking off a season of vibrant pre-Lenten celebrations across Germany and other German-speaking regions.

How is Fasching celebrated?

Fasching is celebrated with elaborate parades, masquerade balls, and street festivals, particularly in cities like Cologne, Mainz, and Düsseldorf. Revelers don creative costumes, enjoy traditional foods and drinks, and participate in lively public gatherings.

What are the origins of Fasching?

The origins of Fasching can be traced back to medieval times, with roots in pagan spring festivals and Christian traditions. It served as a final period of feasting and revelry before the solemn 40-day fasting period of Lent.

What is the difference between Fasching, Karneval, and Fastnacht?

Fasching, Karneval, and Fastnacht all refer to the same pre-Lenten festival, but the name varies by region in Germany and other German-speaking countries. ‘Fasching’ is predominantly used in Southern Germany, Austria, and Bavaria.

Fasching Activities

Live it up
‘Fasching’ is a time to shake off your worries and have a little fun. If you’re in a city where ‘Fasching’ or another form of it is celebrated, join in on the parades.
Watch the celebrations
Even if ‘Fasching’ isn’t celebrated in your city, join thousands of others in watching the parades online. You do not have to miss out on the fun.
Share it
Do you know a friend who likes to party? Let them know about Fasching or use the hashtag #fasching and send your loved ones a link to our website.

Why We Love

‘Fosnat’
In the German region of Franconia, ‘Fasching’ is known as ‘Fosnat.’
‘Fasnet’
In Swabia, in Southwest Germany, ‘Fasching’ is called ‘Fasnet.’
‘Fastnacht‘
In Mainz, a German city on the Rhine river, the festival is referred to as ‘Fastnacht.’
‘Karneval’
In Cologne, a 2,000-year-old city, ‘Fasching’ is called ‘Karneval.’
‘Fastenacht’
In Baden Württemberg, also in Southwest Germany, ‘Fasching’ is known as ‘Fastenacht.’

Why We Love Fasching

It’s a chance to unwind
‘Fasching’ gives people a chance to take a break from daily commitments and relax. It’s a time to get together with friends, spend time with family and celebrate in the community.
It fosters unity
The celebrations of ‘Fasching’ bring people from all over the world together. As people celebrate, divisions disappear.
It’s great for tourism and commerce
‘Fasching’ helps promote tourism and provides a great source of revenue for businesses during that period. It gives a boost to businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and transport services.