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Rosenmontag at Work: What German Law Says About Costumes

Experts reaffirm that employers, not employees, set the rules on Carnival attire.

Overview

  • Legal specialists state there is no enforceable right to wear a costume at work, and companies may restrict or ban outfits for safety or image reasons with violations risking a written warning.
  • Costumes are generally off-limits during working hours, but low-key celebrating may be acceptable during breaks if it does not interfere with others.
  • Customer-facing roles and jobs requiring protective clothing typically exclude costumes, whereas employees working alone may have more leeway.
  • Employers may require themed dress only for justified business purposes and with a clear legal basis such as a contract or works agreement, with examples including marketing promotions or pedagogical events in kindergartens.
  • If a company celebration falls within regular hours, attendance counts as work time, yet employees are not obliged to party and must perform their duties if they opt out.