Munich Carnival

Carnival season is in full swing in Germany, and there is no celebration like the one in Munich! From massive street parades and parties to costumed balls and traditional dances, Munich’s Fasching is one tradition you shouldn’t miss out on!

Carnival season in Munich

Taking place in Munich each year for more than 100 years, carnival in the city is full of local traditions. While things officially kick off on November 11 with the coronation of the new Carnival Prince and Princess, most carnival events take place during the four weeks leading up to Ash Wednesday.

Carnival in Munich centred on to the large parade “Damien Ritter”, which sees colourfully decorated carriages and costumed dance groups take to the streets with music and joy.

The procession starts at Herzog-Wilhelm-Strasse at Sendlinger Tor before moving through the city and ending on Sparkassenstraße. Afterwards, a party starts at the Hofbräuhaus. During the last three crazy days of Carnival, "München Narrisch" takes place. This gigantic fancy-dress, open-air party with live bands, dance groups and competitions is open to all!

Break out your best costumes for Munich’s Fasching 

One of the highlights of Munich’s Carnival is the Dance of the Market Women, which takes place on Viktualienmarkt. The women, dressed in costumes that reflect items that can be purchased at the market, perform traditional dances that they have been rehearsing for months, in front of thousands of people. 

In addition, over 800 balls are held during carnival season in Munich, with the largest ones welcoming thousands of people. The majority of them will have a themed dress code, but there are also classical galas in evening wear. As the weather is likely to be very unpredictable and many of the parties take place on the streets, we advise you to dress both brightly and warmly. 

Attending Carnival in Munich

Ready to try out carnival with family and friends? No need to worry about getting an expensive costume to wear, all you need is a good mood and you’ll be sure to have lots of fun during the carnival season in Munich.

For all the details on celebrating Carnival in Munich, head to the official website.