Germany’s most colourful family celebration
Every year, Spielwelt brings the colour, fun and traditions of German Karneval to Canberra.
Families from our Playgroups, GAP Playschool, Pfadfinder and the wider German-speaking community come together for an afternoon of costumes, music, games and laughter. Whether you’re celebrating Karneval for the first time or it’s a family tradition, everyone is welcome to join the festivities.
What to expect
Throughout the afternoon you’ll enjoy:
- A colourful children’s parade
- Music, singing and dancing
- Traditional Karneval games
- A family BBQ
- Plenty of opportunities to meet other families
- Lots of laughter and a few wonderfully silly surprises
One of the highlights of the day is the playful tradition where the children take over and attempt to keep the symbolic “keys to the city” away from the grown-ups.
Will the adults manage to win them back?
Come dressed for the occasion
Karneval is all about imagination and fun.
Children and adults are encouraged to wear costumes of any kind—superheroes, princesses, pirates, animals, historical figures or something completely original. The more colourful, the better!
Don’t forget your camera—you’ll want to capture the parade and all the colourful moments throughout the afternoon.
What to bring
Please bring:
- A picnic blanket or camping chairs
- A plate of food to share, such as:
- Salad
- Vegetable sticks and dips
- Bretzeln
- Desserts
- Your favourite costume
- A big smile!
Spielwelt provides:
- German sausages
- Bread and onions
- Sauces
- Juice and water
- Traditional Karneval Krapfen
Some plates, cups and cutlery will also be available.
A celebration built by the community
Like all Spielwelt events, Karneval is made possible by volunteers.
If you’d like to help organise activities, decorate the venue, run games or assist with the BBQ, we’d love to hear from you. Helping behind the scenes is also a wonderful way to meet other families and become part of the community.
What is Karneval?
Karneval (also known as Fasching or Fastnacht, depending on the region) is one of Germany’s oldest and most joyful traditions.
Originally celebrated before the beginning of Lent, it has grown into a festival of costumes, music, parades and playful role reversals. Children often become kings and queens for the day, adults happily join in the fun, and communities come together simply to celebrate.
Spielwelt brings this tradition to Canberra in a family-friendly way, giving children the chance to experience an important part of German-speaking culture while creating lasting memories together.
Everyone is welcome
Karneval is one of the easiest Spielwelt events to join.
Whether you’re already part of our community or simply curious about German traditions, come dressed up, meet new friends and experience a colourful afternoon filled with music, laughter and community spirit.
