Many events are enjoyed by locals of Dusseldorf throughout the year.  The most popular of all of these is the Carnival (alternatively known as Karneval and Karnaval).  Similar to the Brazilian Carnival and the well-known Mardi Gras festivals, Dusseldorf Carnival is an annual event with street parties and parades.  There are two different times that this event takes place.  The big one is in February.  More information is available at http://www.whatsonwhen.com/events/eve... .

Another street parade takes place in November and lasts anywhere from a long weekend through an entire week.  The entire area spends that time in celebration and tourists often find it to be a fun time to be in Dusseldorf.  This carnival kicks off a time of great celebration in the area.  It is quickly followed by the opening of the Christmas markets which sell goodies, treats, snacks and more upscale handicrafts throughout the area.  The downtown markets are those most frequented by tourists but there are markets all over Dusseldorf worth seeing.  There are additional Christmas and Hanukah festivities throughout the area.  It culminates with New Years celebrations at the end of the year.

The rest of the year is dotted with various festivals celebrating national and local holidays.  More information is online at http://guides.hotelbook.com/sisp/hote... .