Cologne

The clinking of Kölsch glasses in bustling Brauhäuser, the joyful shouts of “Alaaf!” echoing through the historic Altstadt, a vibrant wave of rainbow flags dancing along the Rhine River promenade, the scent of Halve Hahn and freshly poured beer tantalizing your senses, and an overwhelming feeling of Lebensfreude (joy of living) and Cologne Herzlichkeit (warmth) embracing you like a hug. This isn’t just a parade; it’s Cologne Pride (CSD Köln), an infectiously cheerful and welcoming celebration of queer life in Germany, a vibrant expression of the city’s open heart, and a dazzling Karneval-esque celebration of love under the Rhineland sun. I vividly recall my first Cologne Pride, standing in the Heumarkt square as the opening ceremony kicked off, the energy was electric. From the drag queens in full carnival regalia to families waving rainbow flags, everyone was united in pure, unadulterated Fröhlichkeit (joy). In that moment, surrounded by such contagious Gute Laune (good mood) and genuine Cologne Offenheit (openness), I felt the true spirit of Cologne sparkle – and taste amazing, thanks to the Kölsch! Are you craving a Pride experience that’s joyfully inclusive and deeply rooted in local culture? Are you ready to witness a celebration that’s uniquely, wonderfully Cologne? Then tell me, leeve Lück (dear people in Kölsch dialect), why aren’t you booking your trip to Cologne Pride direkt? (right now?)