Showtanzspektakel Aachen (Karneval Show Dance)

Carnival Show Dance Without Competition

While most Carnival show dance events in Germany are designed as competitions with juries and judging, the FestAusschuss Aachener Karneval (AAK) has consciously taken a different path since 2017: the Showtanzspektakel is a show dance evening without a jury, without judging, without tournament character. Instead: show dance groups from Aachen Carnival societies present their best choreographies, followed by a party in the hall.

November 28, 2026 — The Date

The 2026 edition takes place on Saturday, November 28, 2026, in the Peter-Schwarzenberg-Halle in Aachen-Richterich. The format:

• Show Dance Block: Dance groups from all AAK member associations present their Carnival season choreographies on the hall's stage
• Show dance, guard and Funkenmariechen dances, showcases with Carnival music
• Followed by a big After-Show Party — the actual part of the evening: all dancers celebrate together with the audience until late into the night

Why No Tournament?

The decision against a competition has clear logic: Carnival show dance is about club life, community, and performance — not a sports discipline. With the spectacle format, the AAK can showcase all groups equally, without the competition and judging stress that prevails at many other Carnival show dance events. At the same time, the spectacle serves as a networking event: groups get to know each other, plan mutual appearances at upcoming sessions, and perform as a 'show act' at the renowned Ball der Mariechen.

FestAusschuss Aachener Karneval — The Organizer

The FestAusschuss Aachener Karneval (AAK) is the umbrella organization of Aachen Carnival societies — comparable to the Carnival committee in Cologne. It coordinates the Carnival season, the Rose Monday parade, the major sessions, and overarching events. The Showtanzspektakel is one of its more modern creations — a format that aims to show: Carnival in Aachen is not just tradition, but also innovation.

Öcher Fastelovvend

Aachen Carnival — 'Öcher Fastelovvend' in local dialect — is recognized as intangible UNESCO cultural heritage. With its specific customs (Stippeföttche, Aachener Sessionsmotto, awarding of the city emblem 'Wider den tierischen Ernst'), it stands out from the Carnival traditions of Cologne or Düsseldorf. The Showtanzspektakel, as a modern format, fits into this rich Carnival identity.

Peter-Schwarzenberg-Halle — The Venue

The Peter-Schwarzenberg-Halle is located in the Aachen district of Richterich, on the western outskirts of the city. It is a multi-purpose sports and event hall, well-suited for medium-sized events with a stage and party area. Easily accessible by bus, and reachable by car via the A4 motorway or through the city.