The great carnival adventure at Cologne Cathedral

In the lively city of Cologne, where the people are cheerful and the majestic cathedral towers over the rooftops, lived a little boy named Markus. Markus was four years old and his heart was full of joy for two things: the Cologne carnival and sweets.

One day, just before the carnival spread its magic over the city, Markus set off for Cologne Cathedral with a wide smile. In his small backpack, he carried a colorful carnival cap and a small, empty bag that he hoped to fill with sweets.

When Markus arrived at the cathedral, he was amazed. Before him spread a sea of colorful costumes, joyful people, and music inviting to dance. But something very special caught Markus' attention: next to the cathedral stood a huge cart, covered all over with the most delicious sweets imaginable.

"That's the carnival sweets cart, my boy," explained a friendly voice next to him. It was the city's confectioner, known for his magical sweets. "Every year at carnival time, we fill this cart with sweets and distribute them to the children. But we have a problem: the key to open the cart has disappeared."

Markus' eyes lit up. An adventure! "I can help find the key," he bravely exclaimed.

With a nod of approval from the confectioner, Markus' exciting search began. He examined every nook around the cathedral, followed the traces of confetti, and listened to the songs of the carnival groups. Finally, hidden under an old stone near the cathedral, Markus found the lost key.

With a cheer, he ran to the sweets cart and handed the key to the confectioner. As the cart's door swung open, a scent of a thousand sweet wonders wafted out. Markus' eyes shone at the sight of chocolates, gummy bears, and caramel candies.

"For your brave heart and helpfulness, you shall be the first to choose a handful of sweets," said the confectioner with a smile. Markus could hardly believe his luck. Carefully, he filled his small bag, his heart skipping with joy.

The rest of the day passed like a wonderful dream. Markus shared his sweets with new friends, danced to joyful music, and listened to the stories of carnival princes and princesses. As the sun set behind the Cologne Cathedral, Markus made his way home, clutching the bag of sweets tightly and his face filled with a broad smile.

This year's carnival adventure would be unforgettable for Markus. In his heart, he knew that the magical combination of the Cologne Cathedral, the carnival, and a small bag of sweets was the recipe for a perfect day.