Schwörmontag and Nabada Ulm

A 629-year-old city tradition

The Schwörmontag in Ulm dates back to 1397, when the Ulm guilds first adopted a "Schwörbrief" (oath charter) — a city constitution obliging the mayor to report annually to the citizens. This annual act of direct democracy has been preserved — Schwörmontag remains Ulm's most important city tradition to this day.

11 a.m. — Oath Speech at the Schwörhaus

At 11 a.m., the Lord Mayor appears on the Schwörbalkon of the Schwörhaus (Münsterplatz). In the Schwörrede (oath speech), he accounts for the past year — what has been achieved, what problems lie ahead, how the coming year will be shaped. The speech is politically significant: local politicians, media, and citizens listen attentively. At the end, the Mayor takes the traditional oath: "To be a common man to the rich and poor" — the symbolic commitment to equal treatment for all citizens.

4 p.m. — Nabada begins

At 4 p.m., the Nabada starts, a "floating carnival on the Danube." From the Adenauer Bridge downstream along the city wall to Friedrichsau, the following will travel:

• Colorful rafts of all sizes and types — inflatable mattresses, canoes, self-built constructions
• Themed floats with political satire — Ulm's citizens mock local politics, the city administration, and federal politics
• Music boats with wooden ferries on which bands play
• Black-and-white painted Ulm Schachteln — historic Danube trading boats that carry honored guests today

Safety on the water

No registration is necessary, but strict safety rules apply: no motorboats, no water-spraying actions towards the bank, children under supervision and with life jackets, alcohol consumption during the trip is discouraged. The event will be canceled in case of high water or thunderstorms — the signal is red baskets on the Minster tower.

A tradition of students and carnival-goers

The Nabada has two roots: Ulm students swimming downstream in the 18th century (a daring student pastime) and costumed Danube boat carnival parades in the 17th century. The current form developed in the 20th century — today it is one of Germany's most unique folk festival performances.

Ulm and Schwörmontag in the city calendar

Schwörmontag is Ulm's festival day — on the eve, there is a Sunday Schwörmontag market with a festival tent, bratwurst, and beer. The showmen set up the Schwörmontag festival tent in the Donaupark days in advance. Although the day itself is not a public holiday, it is effectively a day off in Ulm — schools are closed, and many businesses take a break.