Grand Carnival Parade on Carnival Sunday in Höhr-Grenzhausen, the pottery town
The Fastnachtszug Höhr-Grenzhausen is one of the largest carnival parades in the southern Westerwaldkreis district. The town of Höhr-Grenzhausen, world-renowned as the centre of the Kannenbäckerland and the only small town in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network for Ceramics, also cultivates a rich carnival tradition.
In 2026, the parade starts on Sunday, February 15th, at the festive hour of 1:11 PM. Floats, walking groups, music bands, guards, and clubs march through the town centre, creating a densely packed spectacle along the roadside. Afterwards, celebrations continue in inns and clubhouses late into the night.
Höhr-Grenzhausen, with just under 9,500 inhabitants, is the economic and cultural centre of the Kannenbäckerland. The centuries-old ceramic tradition is now linked with modern designer ceramics, Westerwald stoneware, and contemporary art ceramics. The town is home to the renowned Higher Vocational School for Ceramics and houses the Westerwald Ceramic Museum.
Höhr-Grenzhausen is located only about 15 kilometres from Koblenz and is strongly influenced by Rhenish carnival. Many carnival enthusiasts commute between Koblenz and Höhr-Grenzhausen; the carnival parade on Carnival Sunday is one of the major social events of the season. Hundreds of participants, numerous floats, and thousands of spectators make the parade a major regional event.
The Fastnachtszug moves through the town centre of Höhr-Grenzhausen. Floats with thematic mottos—often satirically focusing on local events, federal, and world politics—alternate with walking groups in elaborate costumes. Drum corps, Guggemusik bands, carnival bands, and guards set the rhythm. Thrown items in the form of Kamelle (sweets), candies, and small promotional items are generously tossed into the cheering crowd.
With the festive start time of 1:11 PM, the parade begins unusually early. This is tradition and allows carnival-goers and visitors to attend other events in the region after the Höhr-Grenzhausen parade, such as the parade in Hachenburg-Altstadt on the same day.
After the parade, participants and spectators disperse to the inns, bars, and clubhouses. The festive activities continue late into the evening with popular music, mulled wine, and beer.
The Fastnachtszug Höhr-Grenzhausen 2026 takes place on Sunday, February 15th, at the festive start time of 1:11 PM. Floats, walking groups, music bands, guards, and clubs march through the town centre of the pottery town in the Kannenbäckerland, creating a densely packed spectacle along the roadside. Afterwards, celebrations continue in inns and clubhouses.
The exact program for 2026 will be published by the organizer in the spring. The structure will follow the proven cornerstones of previous years. The Sunday parade is scheduled for approximately two hours, after which the carnival activities will spread throughout the town centre.
The exact program for 2026 will be published by the organizer in the spring. The structure follows the proven cornerstones of previous years:
The route and detailed program will be communicated promptly via press releases from the WW-Kurier and by the Höhr-Grenzhausen Carnival Club.
Free admission.
Sunday, February 15, 2026, parade starts at 1:11 PM.
Town centre of Höhr-Grenzhausen, 56203 Höhr-Grenzhausen, Westerwaldkreis district, Rhineland-Palatinate.
Free entry along the parade route.
By car via the A48 (exit Höhr-Grenzhausen). Public transport: VRM bus lines from Koblenz, Höhr-Grenzhausen train station (line RB28). Parking available on the outskirts of town (Park-and-Ride recommended).
Arrive early due to large crowds. Costumes are encouraged. Bring a bag for thrown items. Wear warm, rainproof clothing. Those staying for the festivities should plan for accommodation or a safe journey home.
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