Greesentag Saarwellingen

A Carnival Tradition Since 1624

The Greesentag in Saarwellingen is an institution in the Saarland region. While people in Mainz celebrate their 'Fastnacht' on 'Schmotziger Donnerstag' and those in Cologne celebrate 'Weiberdonnerstag', the people of Saarwellingen simply call the day Greesentag — a term derived from the local Saarland dialect that holds a firm place in the community's collective memory. The roots of the event date back to 1624 — older than any other documented carnival tradition in Saarland. Four centuries of history make the Greesentag more than just a session with confetti: it is living folk culture that connects generations and is considered a must-attend event throughout the Saarlouis district.

The Greesentag Programme

The day often begins as early as 9 a.m. with the procession of the Greesen-Garde — the traditional carnival society in historical uniforms. The highlight of the morning is the Rathaussturm (town hall storming): jesters gather in front of the town hall, the mayor is symbolically deposed, and hands over the key to the Greesengarde. Afterwards, the Narrenbaum (jester's pole) is erected in the town centre — a long pole decorated with colourful ribbons and symbols. The afternoon is spent by the residents of Saarwellingen in the large marquee, which is set up every year for the carnival days, and on the many small stages scattered throughout the town centre. In the evening, the Greesen-Party takes place in the marquee — with live bands, DJ sets, and entertainment until well after midnight.

Wellinger Faasend — A Whole Week

The Greesentag is embedded within the Wellinger Faasend, an event series lasting almost a week, which begins with smaller sessions on the preceding weekend and culminates in the Rosenmontagsumzug (Rose Monday parade) — over 50 floats and walking groups parade through Saarwellingen's town centre, making it one of the largest carnival parades in Saarland. In between, there's the children's carnival, the ladies' session, the Ringerorden evening, and several themed evenings hosted by the carnival clubs.

2025/2026 Carnival Royalty

In the club, Prince Wolfgang III and Princess Carina I reign over this year's Saarwellingen carnival; the children's royal couple, Prince Pieter I and Princess Ella II, accompany the events.

Atmosphere and Significance

Anyone walking through Saarwellingen on Greesentag sees the entire community in costume — witches, jesters, historical figures, parodies of politicians, animals. Shops close early, schools give students time off for the children's carnival, and pubs serve lunch with people in costume. This is not a tourist spectacle — this is actual Saarwellingen daily life in February. Anyone who wants to experience Saarland's club life in its strongest form should come to Saarwellingen for the Greesentag.

Saarwellingen and the Saarlouis District

Saarwellingen is a municipality in the Saarlouis district with around 13,000 inhabitants. Known for its castle, castle park, and exceptionally active club life (carnival, jazz, music association, fire brigade), the municipality is famous for its carnival tradition far beyond the borders of Saarland. Karneval enthusiasts in neighbouring Lorraine, the Palatinate, and the Trier region are aware of the Greesentag.