Narrensprung Schemmerhofen

One of Upper Swabia's Largest Narrensprünge

The Narrensprung Schemmerhofen is among the largest events of the Swabian-Alemannic Fastnacht between the Danube and Lake Constance. On February 1, 2026, 72 Narrenzünfte (carnival guilds), 18 music groups, and a total of around 4,000 Hästräger (costume wearers) will parade through the streets of the Upper Swabian municipality. The carved wooden masks, elaborate costumes, and the unmistakable Narrenruf (jester's call) characterize this festival, which gathers the entire region in Schemmerhofen every two years.

Program — From the Guild Masters' Reception to the Parade

The day begins in the morning with the traditional Zunftmeisterempfang (guild masters' reception) in the Mühlbachhalle, where the guest guilds and the Schemmerhofen guild jointly open the festivities. At 1:59 PM, the actual Narrensprung begins. The parade proceeds along the main street through the town center, past thousands of spectators lining the roads. Traditional figures like the Hokama, the Laiabudel, and the Mühlbachweible are the unmistakable hallmarks of the Schemmerhofen Fasnet (carnival).

40 Years of Fanfarenzug Schemmerhofen

The 2026 edition holds additional significance: The Fanfarenzug Schemmerhofen, one of the defining music groups of the local guild, celebrates its 40th anniversary. Special performances, a ceremonial act, and musical highlights as part of the Narrensprung are announced.

Children, Kindergartens, and Clubs

The children of Schemmerhofen are also part of the Narrensprung: The community's kindergartens each present elaborately designed floats — in 2026, zoo animals, ghosts, and firefighters are announced motifs. This colorful mix of traditional costume wearer pomp and childlike creativity makes the Schemmerhofen Narrensprung a festival for the whole family.

Schemmerhofen — A Carnival Stronghold in the Biberach District

The municipality of Schemmerhofen, with around 5,000 inhabitants, located in the Donau-Iller region (Biberach district), transforms into a carnival stronghold on the day of the Narrensprung. Visitor safety is ensured by the local fire department and the DRK (German Red Cross). Due to its biennial schedule, every event is a major occasion — the next edition after 2026 is planned for 2028.