Sonneberg celebrates 42nd town hall storming: The cuckoo is back!

Sonneberg celebrates 42nd town hall storming: The cuckoo is back!

There will be a lot of activity in Sonneberg on November 11, 2025 from 11:11 a.m. When the colorful costumes, the cheerful shouts and the sound of loud music come together, then it's that time again: the traditional town hall storming of the Sonneberg carnival club "Kuckuck" is coming up. The heads of the colorful hustle and bustle include chairman Sascha Reichenbacher and mayor Heiko Voigt, who hands over the golden key in a ceremonial act. This is the 42nd storming of the town hall in a row and a real highlight in the region's events calendar insuedthueringen.de reported.

The town hall storm is characterized not only by its tradition, but also by the festive atmosphere that envelops the entire town hall square in Sonneberg. People come together to celebrate the beginning of Fasnacht, which is a special highlight in many regions of Germany, especially in the Rhineland. The celebrations are peppered with parades, songs, masks and costumes that present a colorful picture of the carnival, just like it is Wikipedia describes.

Carnival and its traditions

Carnival, as they say in Germany, traditionally begins on November 11th and reaches its climax in the week before Ash Wednesday. This special time is characterized by culinary customs and the pleasure of savoring the time before the 40 days of Lent. We eat, dance and celebrate together, because the foolish calls like “Alaaf” and “Helau” are simply part of it! By the way, the oldest literary mention of “Fasnaht” dates back to 1206 and shows how deeply rooted this tradition is in history.

While the cuckoo begins its reign in Sonneberg, we know that Carnival is celebrated not only in Germany, but also in many other parts of the world, from Venice to Rio de Janeiro. Each festival has its own vitality and culture that goes far beyond the German carnival. For example, the carnival in Namibia has renounced the traditional Lent and celebrates independently.

Sonneberg in celebration fever

The storming of the town hall in Sonneberg is more than just an occasion to celebrate. It is a symbolic moment that brings the community together and creates anticipation for a happy and carefree time during Carnival. The colorful hustle and bustle and festive activities not only enrich the lives of the people of Sonneberg, but also attract numerous visitors who are carried away by the exuberance and warm atmosphere.

For the city and its citizens, the town hall storm is an annual highlight. Preparations often begin weeks in advance and the anticipation is palpable. Many families are already discussing the costumes that the children and adults will wear during the celebrations.

So, get ready! The cuckoo is once again in charge in Sonneberg, and everyone is invited to celebrate together and properly welcome the carnival season!