Fasching centers around tradition Published Jan. 31, 2008 By Iris Reiff 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Fasching celebrations attracting the most attention and the greatest number of visitors are the parties along the Rhine, in Mainz, Cologne and Duesseldorf. Over time, these events have become an important economic boost for the region since the extravagant parades and balls cost millions of euros. Although almost every village in Germany, regardless of size, conducts a fasching parade Feb. 3-4, the most famous German parades are on Rose Monday, Feb. 4, in the cities of Cologne, Mainz and Duesseldorf, in most cities along the Rhine River as well as in Aachen and Munich. At these places people can find the typical big-city events and spectacular shows. Thousands of observers stand in the streets during the parades cheering, singing and dancing. Children bring bags to collect sweets that the fasching fools hand-out or throw into the crowd. In addition, millions of people watch the parades on TV. People participate in fasching and masquerade balls through Ash Wednesday at local guesthouses or a public spot in town. Everyone can dress up and join in the fun. Typically, at masquerade balls prizes are given away to the nicest costumes or best ideas. Police controls are enforced throughout the entire fasching season. To stay out of trouble, make transportation arrangements before joining in with fasching festivities. The good times will finally come to an end around midnight, Feb. 5, the night before Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent.