Mainzer Fastnacht — School and Kindergarten Parade Hechtsheim

Carnival as an Educational Experience

In Mainz's Carnival culture, schools and kindergartens have been involved from the very beginning. The Hechtsheim School and Kindergarten Parade is a particularly prominent example: it combines the educational goal of imparting tradition and creativity with a genuine district event that mobilizes the entire community.

1,500 Participants

With around 1,500 participants, the parade is one of the largest of its kind in the Mainz districts. Parents, teachers, and educators support the children in building costumes, designing floats, and preparing the program. The joint preparation process over several weeks is often just as important as the parade itself – Carnival as an intergenerational project.

Start at IGS Auguste Cornelius

The parade starts punctually at 10:33 AM at the "Auguste Cornelius" Integrated Comprehensive School, one of Hechtsheim's largest schools, and proceeds through the central streets of the district. The earlier morning start time fits the school-oriented nature of the event – after the parade, students can continue celebrating the rest of the day in the district or at home.

Hechtsheim: Most Populous District

With over 17,000 inhabitants, Mainz-Hechtsheim is one of the most populous districts of Mainz and has a particularly active club life. Several schools, kindergartens, and the local Carnival club Hähnchesborner CC jointly organize the school parade and ensure smooth execution.