North Rhine-Westphalia Weekend Guide: From Bobsleigh Runs to Carnival Parades
Discover a diverse range of weekend activities across North Rhine-Westphalia, offering everything from thrilling sports experiences to vibrant cultural celebrations. WDR 4 has compiled a selection of events taking place this weekend, catering to a wide array of interests throughout the region. These tips, originally broadcast on WDR.de and WDR 4 on February 6th, 2026, are available until February 16th, 2026.
Thrills on Ice: Bobsleigh in Winterberg
For adrenaline enthusiasts, the VELTINS-EisArena in Winterberg presents a unique opportunity to explore the world of bobsleigh. This renowned track, host to European and World Championships in tobogganing, skeleton, and bobsledding – as well as the unconventional Jox-Wok-WM – offers guided tours every Saturday at 2:00 p.m. lasting approximately two and a half hours. Participants gain insights into the mechanics of a bobsleigh, learn braking techniques, and even participate in a “dry run,” experiencing what it’s like to lie in the sled position. The participation fee is 19 euros, and the meeting point is Gate 1, Cap 3, 59955 Winterberg.
Adding to the excitement, the German Senior Luge Championships will be held on Saturday at 6:00 p.m., with free entry. For the truly daring, an “Ice Creamtube” driving experience – essentially skiing down the illuminated ice track in thick tires – is available from 8:15 p.m. on Saturday.
Cologne Celebrates: Funken Bivouac on the Neumarkt
The spirit of Cologne Carnival comes alive at the Funkenbiwak on Neumarkt. This free, open-air event showcases renowned Cologne carnival bands and tradition corps, complete with dance officers and their Mariechen. The reigning Cologne triumvirate will also be in attendance. Festivities begin early, with pea soup and Kölsch available from 9:30 a.m. Attendees can purchase the official motto glass of the current carnival session and enjoy refills until the beer runs out. Following the radio bivouac, the celebration continues in the surrounding bars. The event takes place on Saturday, starting at 9:30 a.m., at Neumarkt, 50667 Cologne.
Paderborn’s Carnival Parade: A Colorful Spectacle
East Westphalia comes alive with the highlight of Paderborn’s street carnival: the large carnival parade. Starting at 2:14 p.m. on Saturday and lasting until approximately 5:00 p.m., the parade features around 2,500 participants, over two dozen floats, and numerous music bands, led by the reigning “Mümmelprince couple.” Following the parade, parties will be held in two tents, with a DJ playing carnival music and encouraging singalongs to classic Cologne hits. The Paderborn carnival battle cry, “Hasi Palau,” referencing the three hare window in the cathedral, encapsulates the region’s unique festive spirit. Entry to the party tents is 5 euros, with doors opening at 4:30 p.m. The parade begins at Maspernplatz, 33098 Paderborn.
Wildlife Encounters: Air Shows in the North Eifel
The Hellenthal Birds of Prey Observatory offers a captivating experience for nature lovers. Air shows on Saturday and Sunday at 11:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. provide informative insights into various bird species, including vultures and giant sea eagles. Visitors can learn about owl hearing, hawk speed, and eagle flight patterns. The observatory also features new aviaries and spacious outdoor areas housing wild cats, raccoons, ferrets, foxes, prairie dogs, mouflon, roe deer, red deer, and wild boar. Daily opening hours (except Mondays) are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with entry costing 13 euros. The address is Hellenthal bird of prey station, Wildfreigehege 1, 53940 Hellenthal.
Dortmund’s Antique & Collectors Market: Treasures Await
For those seeking unique finds and appreciating historical value, the International Antique & Collectors Market in Dortmund is a must-visit. Held on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Westfalenhallen / Hall 6, Rheinlanddamm 200, 44139 Dortmund, the market brings together enthusiasts, collectors, and experts. The diverse range of goods includes silver, jewelry, retro classics, porcelain, Asian items, table linen, paintings, and watches. A free antique appraisal service is available both days between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., and entry to the market costs 8 euros.
These are just a few of the many weekend excursions and nightlife options available in North Rhine-Westphalia, as highlighted by WDR 4. .
