Rosenmontag

Rosenmontag, or Rose Monday (or February 19th in the case of this year) is THE day set aside for the famous Fasching parades in Cologne and Dusseldorf. These parades are really big deals and people turn out in droves to attend. Not only do they come out to attend the 5+ hour long parade, but many of the folks lining the parade route are dressed in costume as well.

Sadly, my company does not provide a “day off” to enjoy, even though most companies in the area actually do give employees the day off, including the Budman’s firm. Partly to commiserate with me since I was in full work mode and partly due to the fact that he has a major impending work deadline, he went into the office to catch up on work as well.

Which is, quite frankly a bummer, because he has never been able to attend a Rosenmontag parade. Oh well, there is always next year.

Here are photos from last year’s parade…just to give you a feel for the event.