Dicker Donnerstag Idar-Oberstein

Start of the Street Carnival

Dicker Donnerstag (Schmotziger Donnerstag, Weiberfastnacht) is the traditional start of the hot carnival phase in the Rhineland-Palatinate carnival. In Idar-Oberstein, the IKG takes responsibility for the symbolic beginning of the street carnival – with a grand opening celebration on Schleiferplatz, the historic square in the Idar district.

11:11 AM Schleiferplatz

From 11:11 AM – the eleventh hour of the eleventh day, one of the sacred carnival numbers – the program begins. The IKG enters Schleiferplatz with the Prince and Princess, troupes, a music band, the board, and the court. This is followed by satirical speeches (Büttenreden), performances by their own dance troupes, show acts, and performances by guest clubs from the region. A mobile stage and a DJ ensure smooth transitions between program items and provide moments for the audience to dance along.

Celebration until 6:00 PM

The official program runs until approximately 6:00 PM, with breaks for food and drinks at snack stands around the square. Those who wish to continue celebrating can move on to the pubs and clubhouses in Idar-Oberstein, which will be hosting carnival week events until Ash Wednesday. Dicker Donnerstag in Idar-Oberstein is a classic festive gathering, family-friendly in the early afternoon, and decidedly more adult later on – free entry, fancy dress recommended, and no weather cancellations.