The Chocolate Spark
From carnival origins to sweet icon: Cologne Carnival thrives on its traditions, and since 2023 it has had a particularly sweet symbol...
The children's triumvirate visiting us
From centuries-old carnival traditions to the sweet present
The origins of Cologne Carnival – from medieval roots to living tradition
Carnival in Cologne looks back on centuries of history and has its roots in the Middle Ages. The first written references to carnival celebrations in the cathedral city date back to the 14th century, more precisely to around 1341. Chronicles report of exuberant celebrations before Lent, which at that time were still strongly influenced by church traditions. They offered people the last opportunity before the austere period of Lent to eat, drink, and celebrate life together—a fundamental idea that still shapes Cologne Carnival today.
The emergence of modern carnival and Cologne's triumvirate
A decisive milestone was the year 1823, when the "Festordnende Komitee" (Festival Organizing Committee) was founded and the first officially organized Rose Monday parade was held. During this time, many of the customs and symbols that still characterize Cologne Carnival today were established. This tradition also gave rise to the triumvirate of the prince, the farmer, and the virgin, which to this day reflects the history, identity, and joie de vivre of the cathedral city as a central symbol of Cologne Carnival. Each of these figures has its own meaning: the prince stands for cheerfulness and merriment, the farmer symbolizes strength and the protection of the city, while the virgin embodies Cologne itself. Together, they represent the unmistakable spirit of "Fastelovend" and are present at countless meetings, parades, and official events to inspire people in Cologne and beyond to celebrate Carnival.
The Children's Triumvirate – Carnival tradition for the next generation
Every year, Cologne's grand triumvirate receives some illustrious support: the children's triumvirate plays a role close to the heart of Cologne's customs. Here, the "Pänz" slip into the roles of prince, farmer, and virgin and experience Fastelovend from their own unique, magical perspective. In the 2026 session, the young revellers will be led by Prince Linus, Farmer Jonathan and Virgin Phili. And here there is a charming difference to the "grown-ups": among the children, the virgin is traditionally played by a girl.
The children's triumvirate is living proof that Carnival is not just a festival for adults, but a tradition that cannot be started early enough. Whether visiting schools, attending colorful children's sessions, or participating in the parade, the young revelers carry the values of community, respect, and joie de vivre directly into the next generation. In this way, the adult and children's triumvirates connect the past with the future of our beloved customs.
In keeping with this, we recently welcomed some very special visitors: the Cologne Children's Triumvirate 2026 stopped off at the Chocolate Museum as part of their packed schedule. It was a wonderfully varied day, during which the three regents immersed themselves deeply in the world of chocolate and provided an extra dose of carnival spirit among the cocoa beans and chocolate fountains.
Kölle Alaaf and chocolate!
Who needs gold and silver when you can have liquid chocolate? Our children's triumvirate swapped their scepters for chocolate spoons and ran riot in the Chocolate Museum. After a brief (but extremely important!) introduction to the secrets of confectionery, there was no stopping them. The children's curious questions quickly revealed that they were true experts at work—at least when it came to taste testing!
The birth of the "Triumvirate Chocolate Edition"
Which toppings go best with your favorite chocolate? The children's answer: ALL of them!
With a great deal of concentration and a good dose of creativity, they created bars that are actually too good to eat (but we all know how that ends...). To pass the time while waiting for them to harden in the refrigerator, they continued crafting. Chocolate coins were decorated as if there were no tomorrow. It was an all-around successful start to the day, which showed that children, carnival, and chocolate are simply the perfect team!
Sweets in our bags and Alaaf in our hearts
Finally, it was time to unpack and repack! The freshly hardened bars and coins were lovingly (and eagerly, in anticipation of the first bite) packed into their bags. Before the journey continued, there was the obligatory "dip into the crowd" – or rather, into the chocolate fountain. One last photo for posterity, one last cookie sunk into the fountain, and the bus carrying the cheerful revelers rolled on to the next appointment.
We tip our hats to so much creative energy! The visit of Cologne's children's triumvirate was a real highlight for us. The day proved once again that chocolate connects people, arouses curiosity, and simply puts a smile on everyone's face. Thank you very much for your visit, dear children's triumvirate – we wish you a great session and hope you stay as wonderfully crazy as you are!
