What is Karneval?

"Karneval" is German MARDI GRAS! Right on the heels of Oktoberfest time, the German Mardi Gras season begins on November 11th and ends with Ash Wednesday, usually in February or March. Our tradition dates back to Germany in Medieval times - particularly in the Rhineland, where many countries existed under harsh rulers. Kings, Princes, and even smaller potentates each maintained their own courts, and in doing so they competed with each other as to the pomp and splendor of their celebration - even at the expense of their population.

At “Karneval-Time” the common people took the chance at spoofing the royals and ‘living it up!’ They ‘elect’ a mock government of eleven fools (our Elferrat), select a Prince and Princess (our Prinzenpaar) to ‘rule’ the Karneval season, and chose the Prinzenpaar’s Royal Guard (our Prinzengarde), a high kicking dance group comprised of the most spirited Mardi Gras ladies! Parades, dancing in the street, masquerade balls and comical skits filled the days and nights. As we’ll tell you now - not much has changed!

Mardi Gras festiviteies have become annual events around the world. Most famous of them are Cologne (Koln), Germany; Nice, France; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Trinidad and New Orleans. “Carnival” in Rio is probably the craziest wing-ding of them all! However, Germany is the enthusiastic Karneval center of Europe. Nearly EVERY town and village has its own festivities!

The Prinzengarde is looking for dancers! We have just begun dance practice and this year is shaping up to be one of our proudest yet!

The dance is traditionally in military unison and is performed for the Prinzenpaar, typically showing many different kicks and movements to fast-temp German march music. This dance is well within the abilities of any woman - dance experience is not necessary! We perform only seven or eight times during the season and meet once a week to practice. The only age limitation is a minimum of 17 years old! You’ll meet new friends, discover new experiences and realize you’re living life to the fullest!