Weiberfastnacht Osnabrück

Carnival in the City of Peace

Osnabrück is known as the City of Peace, where the historic negotiations for the Peace of Westphalia concluded in 1648. Less known – but all the more important to the city's community – is its active carnival scene, organized by numerous associations, which presents a packed program throughout the carnival days. The umbrella organization is the Bürgerausschuss Osnabrücker Karneval e.V. (BOK), which hosts, among other events, Weiberfastnacht and the grand Ossensamstag parade.

6:11 PM – The Festive Kickoff

As is tradition in carnival, the open-air party begins at 6:11 PM – a nod to the carnival number 11. On the Rathausmarkt, the associations set up their stage, stalls, and bars, and from the opening signal, the historic square transforms into a colourful sea of costumes, confetti, and dance formations.

Carnival Market and Show Program

Accompanying the open-air program, a carnival market opens from 6:11 PM, offering food, drinks, and carnival merchandise. On stage, troupes, dance formations, and soloists showcase their skills, and musical acts keep the energy high well into the evening. Thus, Weiberfastnacht complements the carnival calendar, which reaches its first major highlight two days later with the Ossensamstag parade.

Open to All

Unlike in some Rhenish strongholds, Weiberfastnacht in Osnabrück is an open city festival. All 'Jecken', families, young adults, and carnival newcomers are invited to experience the event. Admission to the Rathausmarkt is free.