Geisterzug

The so-called Kölner Geisterzug (Cologne Ghost Parade) – a political demonstration during Carnival – will take place in 2025 under the motto ‘Mer bruche Jeld för Kultur, do sin mer Jeister stur’ (We need money for culture, that's where ghosts are stubborn) and will march through the streets. On 22 February 2025, the Saturday before Women's Carnival Thursday, the procession will start at 7:00 p.m. at Eigelstein, followed by a final rally at the Apostelnkloster. With samba rhythms from bands like Katakichi Cologne and critical contributions from prominent speakers, attention will be drawn to the importance of art and culture for an open society. The aim is to protest against state cuts in the cultural sector and to emphasise the invisible, but integrative and democratic role of culture. In addition to musical highlights, Maria 2.0 will use an ironic sketch dialogue to shed light on social tensions surrounding the cultural sector.