Nachtumzug Fastnacht Merzalben

The Nachtumzug Merzalben is one of the most popular Fastnacht (Carnival) events in the Westpfalz region. It is organized by the Merzalwer Burgnarre e.V., the local carnival club. The concept of the night parade – in contrast to the classic Sunday daytime parades – focuses on a special atmosphere: floats with elaborate lighting, torches, fire effects, well-lit costumes, and a continuously accompanied procession that transforms Hauptstraße into a shimmering festival space.

Start at 7:11 PM

The symbolic time of 7:11 PM (19:11 Uhr) refers to the magical carnival number 11 and has been the fixed start time for years. The procession starts from the assembly point and proceeds along Merzalben's Hauptstraße. Participants include carnival clubs from the region, floats from local groups, music bands, dance troupes, and walking groups. The parade route is illuminated and lined with refreshment stands offering mulled wine, beer, and snacks.

After-Party on Kerweplatz

After the parade, the festivities move to the Kerweplatz, where the after-party with a DJ, live bands, and a large marquee atmosphere continues late into the night. This second part of the program attracts a younger audience and keeps the energy high. The combination of an impressive parade and a lively party is what makes the Merzalben night parade so appealing.

Merzalben Profile

Merzalben, with just under 1,350 inhabitants, is located in the Südwestpfalz district, in the Palatinate Forest between Pirmasens and Kaiserslautern. The town is known for the castle ruins of Gräfenstein above the village – one of the best-preserved castles in the Palatinate. The carnival club's name, Burgnarre (Castle Jesters), alludes to this castle tradition. Despite its small size, Merzalben has managed to organize one of the region's most attractive night parades for eleven years.