🎠Candy or roller coaster?
Alaaf, Helau – or would you rather choose roller coasters over confetti showers? From March 1 to 5, 2025, carnival will be celebrated wildly again in many regions of Germany. But not everyone is in the mood for crowded streets, loud music, and festive parades.
The bummer: most amusement parks in Germany are still hibernating! That means Taron at Phantasialand will be closed, Voltron at Europa-Park isn’t running yet, and Star Trek at Movie Park won’t be beaming us around until later.
But no worries, theme park fans! There are still some great alternatives to escape carnival chaos and enjoy loops, water slides, or just chill out instead.
Efteling – A fairytale carnival roof!
The Dutch amusement park Efteling stays open all year round. While Piraña, De Vliegende Hollander, and Raveleijn take a winter break, other highlights like the spectacular dive coaster Baron 1898 or the brand-new spooky Danse Macabre attraction are ready for you. Expect a beautifully eerie mix of dark atmosphere and surprising effects. Whether you're into mystical fairytale worlds or thrilling coaster action – Efteling offers a fitting alternative for every carnival fan.
Toverland – The insider tip for carnival escapees!
Also in the Netherlands, but often flying under the radar of many theme park fans: Toverland. During carnival days, you can experience magical adventures undisturbed because the park is fully open – except for Troy, which is getting a well-deserved retrack. Especially impressive is the themed area Avalon, where exciting rides like Fēnix and Merlin’s Quest transport you to another world. If you want fewer queues and tons of fun rides, Toverland is a real insider tip.
Plopsaland De Panne – Roller coaster with a sea breeze
A bit further away but definitely worth the trip: Plopsa De Panne in Belgium. The park stays open throughout the carnival period and offers a special treat with “The Ride to Happiness” – one of the most spectacular coasters in Europe. With its spinning cars and numerous inversions, this ride delivers a unique experience. So if you want to escape not only carnival but also Germany’s winter weather, here’s a double win: current forecasts say it’ll even be sunny at the coast during those days. Carnival haters with wanderlust, head to Belgium!
Aqualand Köln – Straight into the slide!
If you need a break right in the heart of carnival in Cologne, no need to dress up – just slip into your swimwear. Aqualand Köln is one of the biggest water parks in Germany and offers both relaxation and action. The highlight is the looping slide that guarantees a real adrenaline rush, sending thrill-seekers on a rapid downhill ride. From the extensive sauna area to adrenaline-packed slides – here, the carnival chaos stays outside and the water fun stays inside.
Rulantica – Water, wellness & Viking vibes
For those who want to hide out from the celebrations down south in Germany, Rulantica is the place to be. Europa-Park’s water paradise combines Nordic flair with tons of water fun. Whether wave pool, slides, or relaxation zones – you can just swim away the carnival here. Especially impressive is the indoor area with attractions like the current channel “Snorri’s Saga” or the slide paradise, making sure there’s fun no matter the weather. Perfect for those who want an active or chill getaway.
Conclusion: Carnival or amusement park – both are crazy good!
Whether you prefer shouting Alaaf or riding coasters – carnival doesn’t always have to mean sweets and Cologne! With Efteling, Toverland, Plopsaland, Aqualand, or Rulantica, there are plenty of options to escape the chaos and still have loads of fun.
So: party or escape – what’s your pick?
