Enjoy the world-famous traditional Cologne Carnival and several top events throughout the year.
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The historic Farina-house is situated opposite the Town Hall. In the world's oldest fragrance factory you can see where the fascinating history of Eau de Cologne and modern fragrances began. 
Events
Carnival, CSD, Cologne Lights - the city offers many events you'll enjoy.
The variety of event venues and its outstanding surroundings make Cologne an attractive location for all kinds of events. Many large and small events throughout the year, like the world-famous "Kölner Karneval" street carnival and the spectacular "Kölner Lichter" fireworks, invite visitors to join in the celebrations.
Find out more: Events
Every year, the city centre of Cologne is touched by the magic of the festivities in the run-up to Christmas. Christmas music, arts and crafts, toys, Christmas decorations and the scent of the Christmas bakeries create a wonderful atmosphere. more
New Year in Cologne – now that really is something to write home about. Each year hundreds of thousands of locals and visitors from all across the planet enjoy the midnight fireworks against the magical backdrop of Cologne’s cityscape. In addition to this, Cologne has plenty of other things on offer. more
During the "crazy days" the "fifth season" culminates into a huge public festival. People dress up, sing local songs and simply have fun. The "crazy days" of Carnival are celebrated with parties on the streets, in public squares and in pubs - view the photo galleries. more
The 26th IHF Men’s World Championship (10 - 27 January 2019) is organised in the two handball-loving countries of Germany and Denmark and one main round is played in LANXESS Arena in Cologne (19-23 January). more
The most important event in the gay and lesbian calendar in Cologne is the Christopher Street Day. Every year on the first weekend of July half a million participants and visitors celebrate and demonstrate in the city centre. more
On 13th July 2019, the "Kölner Lichter" light up the sky in flames. The impressive firework display is synchronised with music and transforms the view of the Rhine into a colourful sea of banyan lights, waterfalls and hundreds of thousands of sparklers. more
Potokina (September 26 to 29, 2018) is the year's key event for the international photography and imaging specialist trade. Trade dealers from all over the world will come to Cologne to find out about the sector's latest trends, establish business contacts and order products for the period of high turnover in autumn and winter. more
The Köln Marathon on 13th October 2019 is an big running event for all - running amateur or experienced marathoner. The course goes along the Rhine banks, the Cathedral and other sights. Enjoy the wonderful atmosphere. more