Rottweiler Narrensprung

One of the Oldest and Most Renowned 'Narrensprünge' in Germany

The Rottweiler Narrensprung is one of the most significant and oldest parades of the Swabian-Alemannic Fasnet – and represents the traditional carnival culture of Southern Germany. While the Rhenish Fastnacht (Cologne, Mainz, Düsseldorf) is based on colourful float parades and 'Helau' cheers, the Swabian-Alemannic Fasnet is a strictly historically influenced custom with over 600 years of history. Rottweil is considered its stronghold.

From the Black Gate into the City

Punctually at the chime of the clock at 8 AM on Shrove Monday, the Rottweil jesters stream through the famous Black Gate – a city gate from the 13th century – and proceed in a three-and-a-half-hour parade down the main street of Rottweil's city centre. The procession dissolves at Friedrichsplatz. The Narrensprung is repeated at 2:00 PM in the afternoon, with the same schedule on Shrove Tuesday, February 17, 2026 (8:00 AM and 2:00 PM).

4,000 Jesters in Original Costumes

Over 4,000 jesters in originally inspected 'Häs' costumes – including Federahannes, Biß, Schantle, Gschell, Benner-Rössle, Großvater, among others – take part in the parade. Each 'Häs' is meticulously checked by the Jester Guild to ensure historical authenticity: white shirt, white bow tie (Federahannes black), white gloves. Only genuine Rottweil residents or individuals who have lived in the city for at least 15 years are permitted to wear the original Rottweil 'Häs' and participate in the Narrensprung.

Historical Background: Custom as Identity

The Rottweil Fasnet has been documented since the 14th century. The Narrenzunft Rottweil 1392 e.V. – founded in 1925 but tracing its roots back to customs from 1392 – is the organising body. The 'Häs' figures each carry symbolic meanings: the Federahannes throws his 'Saublater' (pig's bladder) at spectators, the Biß barks and startles with its bell, the Schantle is reminiscent of the historical city guards. The Swabian-Alemannic Fasnet has been an intangible UNESCO cultural heritage of Germany since 2014.

30,000+ Visitors in the Oldest City of Baden-Württemberg

With documentary evidence dating back to 771 AD, Rottweil is the oldest city in Baden-Württemberg and is located in the Rottweil district. During the Fasnet, the normal population of around 25,000 swells with over 30,000 visitors, who primarily position themselves along the main street and at the Kapellenturm. Hotels in Rottweil and the surrounding area are booked up months in advance.