The Rose Monday festivities marked the peak of the German street carnival, with vibrant parades taking over the cities of Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Mainz. The largest parade in Cologne saw around 11,500 participants, alongside 60 musical bands and 21 floats designed for satirical takes on political figures. These dynamic celebrations reflect a rich tradition of blending cultural festivities with political commentary.

In Düsseldorf, this year's floats garnered significant attention, especially because of the ongoing legal troubles of float designer Jacques Tilly with the Russian authorities. This added a layer of intrigue to the parade, where several floats prominently featured the theme of Vladimir Putin, showcasing a blue drone labeled 'AfD' and a representation of Putin alongside US President Donald Trump as they consumed Europe. Such motifs highlight the contemporary relevance of the carnival as a platform for political critique.

The carnival atmosphere also permeated Mainz where the parade commenced at 11:11 am sharp, continuing the tradition of lively revelry as thousands gathered to enjoy the spirited displays. As the street carnival reaches this annual climax, it reiterates its role in not only celebrating local culture but also providing a significant avenue for societal commentary, making it an essential event in the German cultural calendar.