It's about to get quiet again after all Christmas markets these past two months. Not a lot happens in Stuttgart in January and February, so it's a good time to start your New Year resolutions and (try to) stick to them. In the meantime, there's always one event in February to look forward to:
- February 9th Fasching Parade -- Much like the Mardi Gras of New Orleans, this is the traditional carnival day that marks the start of Lent. The festival season technically begins on November 11th and ends on Shrove Tuesday with a big parade through the city. We usually catch the parade around the Altes Schloss on its way to the Rathaus in Stuttgart. I've also heard that Bad Canstatt has a full list of events, as well. You can see women and men in traditional dress, marching bands of all kinds, girls spinning batons, and best of all, old witches ready to pull your hair and steal something from you if you're not careful. What makes this culinary? The candy that they throw from the floats, of course!
Apart from that, it's worth noting that the Stuttgart Fernsehturm (TV Tower) is opening up again on January 30th after being closed for three years due to fire regulations. The tower boasts some stunning views of Stuttgart, and there's even a little café at the top where you can have your Kaffee und Kuchen. We also recently made it to the "I Got Rhythm. Jazz and Art since 1920" exhibit at the Stuttgart Museum of Art that's going on until March 6th and found it worthwhile. Be sure to pick up an audioguide since listening to the jazz music while you view the collection is half the experience. I've heard the restaurant at the top of the Cube is good, though pricey. Be sure to book in advance if you want to make it a part of your visit.
And don't forget that February 14th is also Valentine's Day, so book early to make sure you get a reservation at your favorite restaurant. I can recommend some of our local German/International restaurants that do a prix fixe or special menu, including Amadeus, Academie der Schönsten Künste, and Grand Café Planie. Be sure to check out other recommended restaurants by using my search page and tags to find your favorite cuisine in the city.
Do you know of any other events around this time in Stuttgart? Leave them in the comments below!