Großer Karnevalszug Schleiden

Schleiden Carnival — Eifel Revelers on the Streets

On Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 2:11 PM, the Großer Karnevalszug starts in Schleiden — the biggest carnival moment of the year in the northern Eifel region. The parade route leads through the city center of this Eifel town, located in the district of Euskirchen between Aachen and Bonn, on the edge of the Eifel National Park. Colorful floats, marching groups, troupes, and music bands will pass by — and plenty of Kamelle (sweets) will be thrown.

KG blau-weiß Schleiden 1977

The organizer is Karnevalsgesellschaft blau-weiß Schleiden 1977 e.V., one of the traditional Eifel carnival societies. Together with other local associations, the KG organizes the Großer Karnevalszug and the entire carnival season program — from the proclamation of the prince to gala sessions and street carnival celebrations on Tulpensonntag (Rose Sunday).

Carnival in the Eifel

While nearby cities like Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Aachen make headlines as carnival strongholds, the Eifel region cherishes its own, somewhat more rustic carnival. In Schleiden, Kall, Mechernich, Hellenthal, and the surrounding Eifel towns, the custom is passed down from generation to generation. The societies preserve the old songs, traditional costumes, and customs — and the carnival parade on Saturday (instead of Rose Monday, as in the major cities) is a typical Eifel characteristic.

Schleiden — City of the Huguenots

Schleiden is a small town with around 12,500 inhabitants, known for its castle, historic fortress, Huguenot past, and its location on the edge of the Eifel National Park. In February, the usually tranquil city center transforms into a carnival stage for an afternoon — a welcome change during the quiet Eifel winter season.

What to Expect

The parade starts punctually at 2:11 PM — the magical carnival number 11 is no coincidence; it refers to the revelers' date, November 11th (start of the carnival season). Floats line up from the morning, and the parade route is well-signposted. For the younger spectators, there's plenty of Kamelle — the small candies thrown into the crowd by the float crews. Costumes are optional but are part of the carnival spirit.

Practical Tips

Arriving early is recommended — the city center is closed to traffic on the day of the event. Parking is available on the outskirts with a short walk. Nearby towns (Hellenthal, Kall, Gemünd) offer alternative carnival parades on the same weekend — those who want to embark on a carnival marathon can visit several Eifel parades in one weekend.