Sternmarsch 2024

In the organizer's words:

The Sternmarsch is one of the most atmospheric night events in Cologne carnival. Since 1998, Cologne's Veedelsvereine have been marching from all directions to the Alter Markt late on Carnival Friday to do what is most fun during Carnival against an atmospheric backdrop: celebrate together!

The grandstands are always filled to capacity hours before the event: Because anyone who has been there once and experienced the unique atmosphere with sparklers and Kölsch music among the Veedelsvereine will be back.

Grandstand tickets / access wristbands

Access to the grandstands at Alter Markt is free of charge for spectators; wristbands are issued at the grandstand entrance.

No tickets or wristbands can be purchased in advance of the star march.

The grandstands are usually open from 4.00 pm and the motto is: "First come, first served", so it is advisable to be at the Alter Markt very early, experience has shown that the first "Jecken" arrive as early as 10.00 am.

If you have a disabled pass, our "disabled grandstand" is at your disposal, simply speak to our security staff on site.

Program 2024

To kick off the program, around 40 - 50 carnival groups from Cologne's Veedelszöch parade from the surrounding squares to the Alter Markt on Carnival Friday (hence the "star march"). From 6 p.m. , a stage program with performances by the Cologne triumvirate and the Cologne children's triumvirate awaits all revellers. Goosebumps are the order of the day when thousands of carnival revellers light sparklers and sing Cologne songs.

The event is regarded as one of the most family-friendly carnival events on the big days: many children and young people take part in the parade or sit with their families in the free grandstand.