If you are a newcomer to Germany and/or the city of Oberursel, you might be interested in watching this cultural (and pagan) event downtown Oberursel on 11 February 2018.

Fasching (also known as Fastnacht or Karnival) begins on the 11th day of the 11th month at 11:11 a.m. every year. The real festivities begin the day after Epiphany (6th January), when Fasching enthusiasts gather at local parties held throughout various public halls in the city.

The high-light happens on Fasching Sunday, this year being on the 11 February, when around 120 splendidly decorated cars and wagons pass through the city. The tour starts at 14:11 at the Rahmtor (old city gate at the market square), and runs for about two hours. Watch out for road blocks, and detours. Most people walk there or take public transportation.

People line the streets to return the Helau* greeting from the cars, and children are eager to catch the candy thrown from the cars. Adults might have a Schnaps (German hard liquor), while standing there. Children usually bring bags to carry their candy home. Don’t forget to bring an umbrella – even on a sunny day. The umbrella, held upside down, will not only protect your head from getting hit hard by the candy, but it also serves as a convenient candy catcher.

From the archives: Fasching Parade in Steinbach, Germany

Finding a parking spot will be difficult that Sunday afternoon. Also, the local pubs and restaurants will be packed with customers starting around 4pm.

So, you should either dress up, and join the lively activities, or stay away from downtown Oberursel.

Thousands of people from neighboring towns, including Frankfurt, come to watch this spectacle.

If you are going to watch the parade, remember to bring your:

• smart phone or camera
• one umbrella per adult (to shield from the rain or flying candy, or both)
• bags to carry home the candy
• Schnaps (in a medium-sized bottle), in case the weather is nasty. To make friends, make sure to share it with the others. Bring some shot glasses. Great conversation starter.

More about this sponsored event in photos, etc.: Taunus Karneval

* Helau stands for ‘Hello!’, ‘Hurrah!’ or simply put: ‘I’m having fun!’

You can go there dressed up or in plain clothes. Enjoy the parade.