Hammer Rosenmontagsumzug

Carnival Highlight in the Eastern Ruhr Area

The Hammer Rosenmontagsumzug is one of the largest carnival parades in the eastern Ruhr area. Organized by the Festausschuss Hammer Karneval (FHK), it takes place annually on Rose Monday through the city center of this city of around 180,000 inhabitants. In 2026, Rose Monday falls on February 16, and the parade is scheduled to start at the symbolic carnival time of 2:11 PM at the Märkisches Gymnasium.

Motto 2026 — 'BUNT wie die Stadt'

The motto for the 2025/26 season is 'BUNT wie die Stadt' (Colorful like the City). It alludes to Hamm's multi-ethnic population and influences the decoration of floats, group costumes, and speeches. As every year, the approximately 56 decorated floats will distribute sweets and 'Kamelle' (sweets) to the spectators along the route. In addition, there will be carnival societies in colorful costumes, dance groups, brass bands, and street musicians.

Altered Route in 2026

Due to construction work at Westentor, the parade route will deviate from its usual path in 2026. The start is at Märkisches Gymnasium, and the parade will proceed via Lohauserholzstraße, Wilhelmstraße, Neue Bahnhofstraße, then via Südring, Westhofenstraße, Sternstraße, Martin-Luther-Straße, ending around 4:30 PM at the Marktplatz. The route will be open for over four hours, allowing spectators to position themselves along the axis.

Open-Air Party at Pauluskirche

Parallel to the parade, an open-air party will take place from 2:00 PM at the Pauluskirche in the city center. DJs will play carnival classics, and Hamm's carnival societies will have their own stands. The party serves as the natural meeting point after the parade — those who don't head straight home will linger here.

Festausschuss Hammer Karneval (FHK)

The Festausschuss Hammer Karneval (FHK) coordinates all of Hamm's carnival parades — in addition to the Rosenmontagszug, also the Veilchendienstagszug (Whit Monday Parade), the children's parade, and the Hamm-Pelkum district parade. Over 180 volunteers ensure safety annually, with 'Wagenengel' (float attendants) and route marshals accompanying the parade. Interested helpers and participating groups can register at fhk-hamm.com.