Karnevalsumzug Wemmetsweiler

47th Edition of a Saarland Faasend Tradition

The KG Wemmedswella Knausekäpp was founded in 1984 and is one of the traditional carnival societies of the northern Saarland. Its hallmark, the annual Karnevalsumzug Wemmetsweiler, celebrates its 47th edition in 2026 — a remarkable constant in a region where 'Faasend' (Carnival) cultivates its own tradition, distinct from the Karneval along the Rhine and Moselle.

Start at the Max-von-der-Grün-Schule

The parade starts at 2:00 PM at the Max-von-der-Grün-Schule in Wemmetsweiler — named after the poet Max von der Grün, born here in 1926, whose works are standard in mining literature. A nice irony: the most flamboyant event of the village starts precisely from the schoolyard of a social realist.

Saarland Carnival, Not Cologne

Unlike the major media-driven carnival on the Rhine, the Saarland cultivates a *small-scale, village-based* carnival. The 'Faasendsumzüge' (carnival parades) in Wemmetsweiler, Marpingen, Saarbrücken, Saarlouis, and many other places are organized by local clubs, without television broadcasts or large stage shows. The atmosphere: down-to-earth, creative, sometimes politically satirical, often self-ironic.

Themed Floats and Walking Groups

Regularly participating are 30 to 40 groups: themed floats with creative structures, walking groups from clubs in the village and neighboring towns, dance troupes from the KG, and Guggenmusiken from the Saarland and the Palatinate. Thrown items — 'Kamelle' (sweets), 'Strüsje' (small bouquets), candies — bring cheers from children and adults. Residents along the parade route decorate their houses, many organize private 'Faasend' parties in their garages or yards.

Knausekäpp — The Name

The club name Knausekäpp plays on the Saarland term *'Knause'* — the hard end of a loaf of bread. A local term that underscores the club's down-to-earth character. The club motto promises *'Joy, Community, and Lots of Good Cheer'* — and this applies not only to the members but to everyone who experiences the parade on Sunday.

After the Parade — Faasend Party

The parade ends in the late afternoon with a big 'Faasend' party in the town center and at the Knausekäpp's club house. Refreshments provided by the club, draft beer, live music until late at night.