Carnival in Baden-Baden
The stage is set for the “fifth season” in Baden-Baden: As the days slowly grow longer again and winter winds down, the colorful festivities of Fasnacht begin—a time filled with traditions, a lively atmosphere, and spectacular costumes.
What exactly is "Fasnacht"?
Fasnacht (carnival) is a festive season in late winter where people dress up, take to the streets, and celebrate with parades, music, and laughter — one last joyful blowout before the Christian fasting period of Lent begins. Every region has its own unique traditions, and on this page we invite you to discover those of Baden-Baden and the surrounding area.
Our customs and traditions
Carnival in Baden-Baden and the surrounding area is rich in time-honored customs and rituals that make the festival a unique experience:
- The „Schmutzige Donnerstag“ (loosly translates to "dirty thursday") – The kickoff: On “Schmutziger Dunschdig” - the Thursday before Carnival Sunday - the carnival revelers take over. Large groups of masked participants storm the town hall and “liberate” schools and kindergartens, turning everyday life upside down and spreading the carnival spirit. The streets fill with people in costume, and the colorful festivities begin.
- Hemdglunker-Parades – Nightgowns and drumbeats: Traditionally, locals take to the streets during Fasnacht wearing white nightshirts, known as Hemdglunker, accompanied by drums and rattles. This custom dates back to ancient rituals in which nighttime processions were believed to drive away evil spirits. Today, it is a cheerful spectacle that brings together carnival enthusiasts of all ages.
- The Narrensprung (loosly translates to "the jump of the fools") – The Magic of Wooden Masks:
The so-called “Narrensprung,” an integral part of the Swabian-Alemannic Fasnacht, features costumed characters such as witches, devils, and other mystical figures. These carnival figures wear hand-carved wooden masks and impressive costumes, which add an air of magic to the colorful festivities and keep this centuries-old tradition alive.
- The Burning of the Schatulla – A Fiery Finale: On Carnival Wednesday, the Schatulla is burned to signal the end of the festive season. This ritual symbolizes the transition to Lent and marks the final “banishment” of winter and all evil spirits—an impressive finale to Carnival.
The highlight of the Baden-Baden Carnival
The week leading up to Ash Wednesday, also known as the “high season” of Carnival, is marked by the most colorful and exuberant celebrations. During this time, the revelers symbolically take the reins and literally turn the world upside down. The “Schmutziger Donnerstag” marks the start of this festive week, and the celebrations continue in full swing until the carnivals Tuesday. The "Aschermittwoch" (loosly translates to "Ash Wednesday") marks the end of the carnival season and the beginning of Lent—a symbolic transition from revelry to reflection.
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Carnival FAQ
“Narri, Narro” is the traditional carnival chant heard during Carnival in Baden-Baden and the surrounding area. This chant is exchanged back and forth between the revelers and the crowd, creating a joyful, communal atmosphere. It is a simple yet powerful expression of camaraderie during the carnival season.
In Baden-Baden and many parts of Germany, the carnival season traditionally begins on November 11 at 11:11 a.m. Why this particular date and time? The number 11 has always been considered a “foolish number”—it symbolizes disorder and a departure from the normal order of everyday life. As far back as the Middle Ages, 11 was seen as the “number of fools” because it lies above 10, which stands for perfection and law.
November 11 marks the official start of the “fifth season,” even though the actual celebrations don’t really get going until after the Christmas holidays. The period between November 11 and Aschermittwoch is filled with gala performances, balls, and parades, which reach their peak during the “hot phase” of Fasnacht just before Aschermittwoch.
Aschermittwoch marks the beginning of Lent, which lasts 40 days until Easter. Traditionally, this period of reflection and abstinence followed the exuberant days of Carnival. That is why Carnival ends on Aschermittwoch , and the joyful “fifth season” is put on hold for a year.
Baden-Baden during Carnival: an unforgettable experience
In Baden-Baden, carnival is more than just a celebration—it’s part of our regional identity, a blend of tradition and joie de vivre that’s contagious. With colorful parades, festive balls, and authentic customs, a joyful carnival season full of fun and community spirit awaits you. Experience the unique atmosphere, be captivated by the elaborate masks and costumes, and enjoy the vibrant festivities throughout the city.
The Baden-Baden Carnival Etiquette Guide 🎉
- Costumes encouraged 🎭
A costume isn't a must—but without one, you're only half as festive! Whether it's a witch's robe or a jester's cap, the fun factor goes up with every accessory. - Don't forget "Narri, Narro!" 📣
If a carnival reveller greets you with “Narri!”, you’re supposed to reply loudly and cheerfully with “Narro!”. Anyone who doesn’t join in will immediately be exposed as a carnival newbie! - Candy isn't a souvenir 🍬
The candy thrown during parades is meant to be eaten—not saved for the next carnival! Go ahead, enjoy the treats, and let yourself be surprised by the sweet abundance. - Dance like no one is looking💃🕺
Whether you’re in time with the beat or not—during Carnival, the only thing that matters is the joy of dancing! Let the music carry you away and dance your heart out as if there were no tomorrow. - "Schmutziger Donnerstag" (dirty thursday) doesn’t mean being dirty 🧹
„Schmutzige Dunschdig“ may mark the begin of the carnivals highlights, but don't worry - it's all about festive chaos, not actual dirt! - "Hemdglunker" are not pajamas👕
Anyone who takes part in a Hemdglunker parade traditionally wears a white nightgown and joins in the nighttime festivities with a drum and a ratchet. Don't worry—you won't actually be going to bed! - "Schatulla-Verbrennung" (burning of the Schatulla) is not a barbecue 🔥
On Carnival Wednesday, the festive season comes to an end with the burning of the Schatulla, an old custom meant to drive away winter. Please don’t bring any hot dogs—this is purely a symbolic fire!