Nelkensamstagszug Moers — Carnival Parade

The Carnival Parade on the Left Lower Rhine

While the world famously stands still between Cologne and Düsseldorf on Carnival Saturday, Moers has its own answer: the Nelkensamstagszug. With up to 120,000 expected visitors along the route, it is one of the largest carnival parades on the left Lower Rhine — and at the same time the only major parade that connects two cities: starting in Duisburg-Homberg, ending in the heart of Moers.

Date and Parade Time

On Saturday, February 14, 2026, the parade starts at 1:11 PM — the carnival number eleven is incorporated. From the morning onwards, the streets along the parade route fill up; clubs, carnival societies, and floats gather at the assembly point in Homberg. The parade stretches for several kilometers and, depending on the number of floats, will be in motion between 1:30 PM and approximately 4 PM.

Return to the Traditional Route in 2026

Important news for the 2026 edition: After a route shortening last year, the parade will run again to the Trotzburg intersection on Wilhelm-Schröder-Straße — the historic finish line. The City of Moers will cover all security costs in 2026, relieving the carnival association financially and allowing the festival to retain its traditional form. A political decision with symbolic power for the Lower Rhine carnival.

Security Concept

Following the Magdeburg attack in 2024, Moers has significantly strengthened its security concept: around 130 different barriers are in place, including mobile truck barriers, vehicles, and concrete blocks. Approximately 50 checkpoints secure the entire parade route. The glass ban zone along the main route prevents injuries — drinks are served in paper cups.

Tradition and Atmosphere

For those who have never experienced a Rhenish carnival parade: the Nelkensamstagszug is a good introduction. Kamelle (sweets), Strüßjer (small bouquets), and plush toys are thrown from the floats, and groups toss costumes, candy, and small gifts. The atmosphere is family-friendly, much more relaxed than the Cologne Rose Monday parade, with plenty of Lower Rhine humor. Carnival societies from Moers, Duisburg, Krefeld, and the surrounding area present their floats — some satirically political, others classically carnival-esque.

Moers — Carnival Capital of the Lower Rhine

With its old traditions of shooting clubs and associations, Moers is considered the most important carnival capital on the left Lower Rhine. "Moers Carnival" is deeply rooted in city life — over 30 carnival societies are based here. Those who want to experience the atmosphere after the parade will find numerous pubs in the old town with carnival music and post-parade celebrations late into the night.