comedy

Remembering the celebrated satirist 'who taught Germans how to laugh'

In a country that was voted in 2011 the least funny in the world, being crowned Germany’s King of Comedy isn’t quite so impressive. But since his death in the same year, no German comedian has come close to dethroning the hilarious satirist and national treasure Loriot.

offbeat

Police snap parrot going at 1.5 times speed limit

Police in Zweibrücken in western Germany were puzzled when their speed trap was set off although no cars were on the road. But they were even more surprised to see what had triggered it.

April fools

Germany's best April Fools' jokes

While it might not be as prevalent as in English-speaking countries, there is still a rich tradition of “Aprilscherze” in Germany. Take a look inside for some of the best of 2015.

offbeat

Spoof hails Varoufakis: puts 'hell' in 'Hellenica'

An offering that rehabilitates the much-maligned German sense of humour is rocking the internet with a searing spoof metal tribute to Greece's formidable new finance minister Yanis Varoufakis, filled with painful moments of self-mockery.

April

Germany's April Fools' Day Gold

As April Fools' Day approaches, this week’s Local List runs through some of the better jokes cooked up in Germany for the traditional day of jokes.