Andernach Carnival – Rose Monday Parade

The Andernach Rose Monday Parade is one of the largest and most traditional carnival parades in northern Rhineland-Palatinate. Andernach, the former imperial city on the Middle Rhine between Koblenz and Bonn, boasts a long Rhenish carnival tradition that unfolds in the city center on Rose Monday.

Over 1,000 participants in floats, walking groups, music bands, guards, and Funkenmariechen (carnival dancers) march through the city streets. This scale makes the Andernach parade a significant carnival event of supra-regional importance. The parade starts on Rose Monday, February 16, 2026, at 2:11 PM at Schillerring.

The Andernach Carnival Societies – several traditional clubs, each with their own guards, galas, and floats – jointly organize the parade. Political and social themes are addressed on the floats, with artistic costumes and caricatures shaping the visual spectacle. Abundant Kamelle (sweets) throwing delights especially the children.

Already on Carnival Saturday, February 14, 2026, the traditional Rekrutenzug (Recruit Parade) takes place – a smaller, often particularly jester-like and ironic procession, which is a unique Andernach specialty. Sunday also brings further events, such as performances by the guards in halls or morning pint sessions.

In the Andernach districts, separate parades are organized, spreading the carnival spirit throughout the city: in Namedy on February 7, 2026, in Kell on February 13, 2026, and in Eich on February 15, 2026. These district parades are smaller but just as authentic and are usually organized by the local carnival clubs.

The Andernach Rose Monday Parade represents a vibrant carnival tradition on the Middle Rhine, supported by numerous clubs. With the historic backdrop of the former imperial city, the Mariendom cathedral in the background, and the Rhine promenade as a potential post-parade stroll destination, the day offers a complete carnival experience.