Rheinland Bids Farewell to Carnival with Traditional Effigy Burnings

The symbolic burning of Hoppeditz in Düsseldorf and Nubbel in Cologne marks the end of the Carnival season, as Düsseldorf unveils a politically charged motto for 2026.

The Carnival season in the Rheinland concluded with the traditional burning of effigies, Nubbel in Cologne and Hoppeditz in Düsseldorf, symbolizing the absolution of misdeeds during the festivities.
In Cologne, costumed participants gathered with torches for a somber ceremony to burn Nubbel, while Düsseldorf held a similar event for Hoppeditz, who will symbolically return on November 11.
The new motto for the 2025/2026 Düsseldorf Carnival season, 'Mer bliewe bunt - ejal wat kütt!' ('We remain colorful - no matter what comes!'), was announced earlier than usual.
Düsseldorf's Carnival organizers describe the motto as a political statement emphasizing diversity and resilience, reflecting the inclusive spirit of the event.
The motto was inspired by a suggestion from a local Carnival group and unveiled during the ceremonial farewell to the reigning Prince and Venetia of the 2024/2025 season.