Fastnachtsumzug Oppen-Reimsbach

A Traditional Alternating Parade

The special feature of the Faasendumzug between Oppen and Reimsbach: both districts of the municipality of Beckingen lie directly next to each other in the Saargau — and accordingly, the direction of the Karnevalsumzug (Carnival parade) traditionally alternates. Sometimes it starts in Oppen, sometimes in Reimsbach. In 2026, the parade will march from Oppen to Reimsbach. The event is jointly organised by SSV Oppen e.V. and the Reimsbach Carnival clubs.

The Route through the Saargau

The parade starts punctually at 2:11 PM (the maddest time of Carnival) on the street Im Seifen in Oppen. From there, it leads over the following stages:

• Oppener Straße
• Reimsbacher Straße
• Kriegerfriedhofstraße
• Zur Plätsch
• Arrival at the Reimsbach village square around 4:15 PM

Along the approximately 1.5-kilometre route, Carnival clubs, music groups, guard dancers, decorated theme floats, tractors with trailers, and individual costume groups form up. Residents along the route stand by the roadside with snacks and schnapps, throwing showers of sweets back at the parade — yes, here the throws go in both directions.

After Faasend Umzugsparty in the Multi-purpose Hall

After the parade disbands, it seamlessly transitions into the After Faasend Umzugsparty in the Reimsbach multi-purpose hall. Here, DJs provide Carnival sound, the hall becomes a dance floor, traditional beer is served from the tap, along with schnapps and non-alcoholic options. The multi-purpose hall can accommodate several hundred guests, so everyone can find themselves in a celebratory circle even after the parade.

Saarland Carnival — Beckinge Helau!

The Saarland Carnival — or Faasend, as it's called here — has its own unique flavour. Less pompous than in Cologne or Mainz, but rooted in village traditions and with the charm of genuine club culture. In the Saargau, the region north of the Saar river encompassing the municipalities of Beckingen, Mettlach, and Merzig, Faasend has its own identity, which is also evident in the typical fools' cry Beckinge Helau!

Beckingen in the Merzig-Wadern District

Beckingen is located in the western Saarland between Merzig and Saarlouis, on the Saar river. The municipality consists of eleven districts, of which Oppen and Reimsbach are located on the eastern edge on the heights above the Saartal valley. Anyone who wants to experience authentic Saarland Carnival — away from the big city parades — will find it here.