Carnival
February (dates vary, seven weeks before Easter)
Northern Europe's largest carnival with six days of celebrations coming to a head with the Rose Monday parade.
City centre
Website: www.koelnerkarneval.de

Cologne Pride/Christopher Street Day
Weekend in mid July
One of Europe's largest gay and lesbian festivals.
City centre
Website: www.colognepride.de

Summer Jam
Weekend in mid July
The largest reggae, dance and world music festival in Europe.
City centre
Website: www.summerjam.de

Kölner Ringfest
Last weekend in August
Dozens of established pop artists and bands put on free outdoor concerts.
City centre
Website: www.ringfestkoeln.de

Weihnachtsmärkte (Christmas Markets)
Late November-Christmas Eve
Six markets offering food, drink and crafts plus events and Advent boat trips.
Around the city centre