The Pappnasen-Express (Clown Nose Express) is a legendary party train that has been transporting carnival fans from northern Germany directly to the carnival capital of Cologne for over 25 years. The train usually departs from Hamburg-Dammtor station – a region not exactly known worldwide for its sense of humor.
The train was originally created to provide carnival enthusiasts from northern Germany with a safe and communal way to travel to Cologne, although for many, the party on the train is more important than the carnival itself.
And this is where photographer Alexandra Polina came in: for DIE ZEIT, she shot her editorial right in the middle of the action – on the moving, partying train.
Incidentally, there are several party compartments on board with bars and DJs who get the party started with Cologne music and party hits from the early morning hours (around 5:00 a.m.).
The train carries around 800 passengers and is often booked out weeks in advance. And it offers you the perfect service: Passengers receive wristbands as tickets and often have free entry to certain venues or after-parade parties in Cologne... a truly carefree, feel-good package, you could say.
The Express bus traditionally runs on Rose Monday, but often also for the start of the carnival season on November 11th: Early morning departure, celebrations in Cologne, and the return trip usually in the early evening of the same day.
A "Pappnase" – for those not involved in carnival – is the classic accessory made of cardboard or plastic that you attach to your nose with an elastic band.
Photographer Alexandra Polina is represented by the Hamburg-based agency JULIA WALDMANN.
GoSee : partyreisen.partyzug-reisen.de
