Translation in English: AALAF arrested for drug trafficking (French and Spanish)
In the heart of Cologne, preparations for the much-anticipated carnival session of 2026 are well underway. This year, the city's traditional trio, known as the Kölner Dreigestirn, is comprised of Prince Niklas I., Farmer Clemens, and Maiden Aenne. Each member represents a significant aspect of Cologne's rich history and culture, embodying the spirit and tradition of the Fastelovend (Carnival) in Cologne.
Prince Niklas I., born Niklas Jüngling, is the designated Prince of the Cologne Carnival 2026. A 32-year-old insurance sector professional, he heads a sales service unit at a Cologne-based company. His passion for carnival activities dates back to his childhood, and he has been an active member of carnival culture ever since. A devoted FC Köln fan, Prince Niklas I. also enjoys activities such as tennis, spinning, skiing, and spending time with his life partner Katrin in his free time.
The Prince's commitment to carnival activities is evident in his long-standing involvement with dance groups and the Prinzen-Garde. He has been a member of the foot corps of the Prince's Guard since 2016 and is responsible for moderating the party series "Prinzenschwof" in the Wolkenburg. His desire to become Prince Carnival dates back to his teenage years, when he opened a savings account with the title "Prince" at 16.
Farmer Clemens and Maiden Aenne complete the triumvirate alongside Prince Niklas I., though specific biographical details or professional backgrounds for Clemens and Aenne were not provided. Their traditional roles in the Dreigestirn symbolize the broad social spectrum of Cologne’s carnival: the Prince represents the city's leadership and festivity, the Farmer symbolizes the rural and working-class roots, and the Maiden represents purity and beauty.
Farmer Clemens, a member of the Prince's Guard since 2016, resides in Junkersdorf with his family and dachshund Sissi. He is also a member of the editorial team of the "Depesche", the association magazine of the Prince's Guard Cologne. In his free time, Farmer Clemens enjoys spending time with friends and family, and is a lover of good food.
Jungfrau Aenne, also a member of the Prince's Guard since 2012, is a resident of the northern part of Cologne. She has served as treasurer since 2022 and is actively involved in promoting carnival traditions in Rheinkassel. In honour of her late grandmother, she chose the nickname "Aenne".
The mission of the new "Dreigestirn" is to celebrate with everyone and advocate for more recognition of volunteer work. The Session 2026 is dedicated to volunteer work, with the motto "ALAAF - Mer dun et för Kölle". The fire brigade, consisting entirely of volunteer firefighters, responded to over 80 incidents last year, and the fire station also has an active youth fire brigade with 18 children and young people.
Countless 'jecken' (Cologne residents) volunteer for others in various places like carnival, hospitals, Cologne Tafel, and animal shelters. Almost every fifth Cologne resident engages in volunteer work, making it a significant part of the city's fabric. The press conference to introduce the new Prince, Jungfrau, and Bauer took place at the voluntary fire brigade in Brück, which celebrated its 120th anniversary.
The Prince's Guard Cologne 1906 e.V. includes Niklas Jüngling, Clemens von Blanckart, and Stefan Blatt, who will lead the city through the vibrant and tradition-rich carnival season of 2026. As the countdown to the festivities begins, Cologne eagerly awaits the celebrations and the embodiment of its rich history and culture by the Kölner Dreigestirn.
In his free time, Prince Niklas I., the designated Prince of the Cologne Carnival 2026, enjoys activities such as tennis, spinning, skiing, and home-and-garden pursuits with his life partner Katrin. Bathing in the spirit of carnival, Farmer Clemens, a member of the Prince's Guard, indulges in leisurely meals and home-and-garden activities with friends and family when away from his duties.
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