It’s Carnival in Cologne.
Also known as the 5th season of the year.

Let me try to explain this phenomenon to you ;)

It’s when you walk through the streets and suddenly a violet bear is crossing your way. When you sit in the train together with a princess, a pig and Captain Jack Sparrow. It’s when you spot Ernie and Bert holding hands. It’s when there is music everywhere.

Of course there is also the other side of Carnival. People drink a lot of alcohol, behave aggressively, don’t know their limit and everything gets out of control.

But if you don’t overdo it, carnival can be a lot of fun! It’s a communal spirit, everyone is dancing with each other on the street, celebrating life. You just have to give yourself into it, go with the flow. :)