Koblenz Carnival – Carnival Friday / AKK Münzplatz

Carnival Friday in Koblenz is one of Germany's most unusual Carnival traditions. While Carnival Friday before Rose Monday is usually relatively quiet in the Rhenish Carnival, Koblenz has a special tradition: the symbolic encounter between Koblenz carnivalists and troops of the Bundeswehr on Münzplatz.

Background

Koblenz has been a garrison town for centuries and is home to a variety of Bundeswehr facilities today. The tradition of Carnival Friday dates back to this military connection and is expressed in a humorous staging: Bundeswehr troops march onto Münzplatz, are „received“ there by the Koblenz carnivalists, and together they form a carnival spectacle.

Atmosphere

From 3 p.m., Münzplatz fills with spectators, carnivalists in uniforms and costumes, and Bundeswehr soldiers. Speeches, short skits, music, and joint Carnival songs characterize the event. Münzplatz is densely packed during the event, with many guests bringing handcarts and costumes.

AKK

The organizer is the Arbeitsgemeinschaft Koblenzer Karneval (AKK), which, as the umbrella organization of all Koblenz Carnival clubs, organizes the program. The AKK also organizes the Rose Monday parade and many other Carnival events in the city.