Pirmasens Carnival Parade (Street Carnival)

The largest Carnival Parade in the West Palatinate

The Pirmasens Carnival Parade has been an integral part of the cultural life in the shoe city for decades. With its route through the pedestrian zone and its conclusion on the Exerzierplatz, the parade shapes the cityscape on the first day of February and brings together the population from all city districts, as well as visitors from the entire Südwestpfalz region and from neighboring Lorraine and Saarland.

New in 2026 — New Organizational Structure

In 2026, the parade will start with a new organizational structure. This reorganization became necessary after the future of the parade was discussed. With the establishment of a new support concept and the inclusion of a fanfare band, the tradition is secured for the coming years. The city of Pirmasens and its clubs have jointly taken responsibility.

33 Groups — Floats, Walking Groups, and Music

33 groups from Pirmasens and the surrounding area are participating in the parade. Floats, walking groups, music bands, and costumed clubs create a colorful overall picture. The themes range from classic carnival motifs to caricatures of current events — the political and satirical character of Fasching also finds its place in Pirmasens.

Route and Closing Party

The assembly point is at Hauptstraße/corner Bergstraße. From there, the procession moves through the pedestrian zone towards Ecksteinsau, Ringstraße, and finally Exerzierplatz. The closing party takes place on the Exe — as the Exerzierplatz is colloquially known in Pirmasens: the Halli-Galli-Party, the traditional dance festival that extends the parade day into the evening hours.