Gau-Algesheim Fassenacht

The Carnevalverein Gau-Algesheim (CVGA) is the central driving force behind the carnival culture in this wine town. With numerous active members, several guards, male and female dance groups, stage orators (Büttenredner), an Elferrat (council of eleven), and a session president, the club manages extensive program planning throughout the entire season.

The season traditionally begins on November 11th at 11:11 AM with the ceremonial enthronement and the presentation of the current prince and princess couple. From this day onwards, internal club evenings, ladies' and gentlemen's sessions, masked balls, and guard performances at friendly clubs in the region follow for weeks. The CVGA maintains close contacts with carnival clubs in Mainz, Bingen, and Ingelheim, participating in their parades and sessions.

In January and February, the season gains momentum. The major sessions in the town hall or the club's premises offer a varied program of stage orations, guard and show dances, male and female dance groups, music, and sketches. The Children's Carnival, held on a separate date, provides a stage for the youngest revellers.

The actual Carnival Week in early to mid-February brings the program to its peak. Parades move through the town, featuring floats, walking groups, guards, and music bands. The route leads through the historic old town with its half-timbered houses and the baroque town hall; the crowd along the roadside catches the candy thrown by participants and celebrates exuberantly.

On Ash Wednesday – in 2026, it falls on February 18th – the season officially ends. With the traditional herring dinner and the symbolic burning of a straw figure (in some clubs), the festive period is bid farewell. The Gau-Algesheim Fassenacht holds a firm place in the town's annual calendar and shapes social life for a large part of the winter.