Karnevalsumzug Guckheim

Carnival in the Westerwald

The Westerwaldkreis is home to a vibrant, often still village-influenced Carnival culture. While the major carnival strongholds take centre stage on Rose Monday, many smaller Westerwald communities deliberately organise their parades on Carnival Saturday or Sunday. This way, they avoid media competition and give their own village the full attention of the region.

Guckheim — a stronghold in the western Westerwald

The municipality of Guckheim in the Westerburg administrative district cultivates a traditional Carnival. For weeks, float groups build their structures in garages and barns, dance groups train in the village hall, and the local Carnival club coordinates the year's major event. The parade on Carnival Saturday is the social highlight of Guckheim.

The Parade

The parade proceeds along the main street through the village centre. Thematic floats — often satirically exaggerating local events, federal, or world politics — alternate with walking groups appearing in elaborate group costumes. Fife and drum corps, Guggemusik bands, and Carnival bands set the rhythm. Thrown items such as Kamelle (sweets), promotional items, and small gifts are generously tossed into the crowd.

After-Zoch-Party with DJ Markus Deluxe

After the parade, the celebrating crowd moves to the large festival tent. An exuberant After-Zoch-Party awaits with DJ Markus Deluxe, a well-known Westerwald party DJ. His programme of Cologne sing-along hits, Westerwald Carnival classics, and modern party bangers fills the dance floor until late into the night.

Family-Friendly Volksfest

The Guckheim Carnival parade is a Volksfest (public festival) for the whole family. Costumed children on the roadside are preferentially showered with thrown items by the float crews. The manageable size of the community ensures a warm, uncomplicated atmosphere.