Braunschweig is gearing up for the 2025 Schoduvel, the fourth-largest carnival parade in Germany, scheduled for this Sunday. Following the successful relaunch of the event after pandemic-related disruptions, the organizers promise both beloved traditions and exciting new features.
The 47th Schoduvel will kick off at 12:40 PM from Europaplatz, rolling through the streets of Braunschweig for approximately four hours under the theme "Leiwe Jecken, leiwe Lüe, et is mal weer Schoduvel-Tiet." With over 130 large floats, the parade is set to distribute about 30 tons of sweets and toys to the crowds, including 5,000 balls.
Karsten Heidrich, the parade marshal, noted the commitment to current themes, with the creation of floats starting just four weeks before the event. This timing is particularly interesting as the Schoduvel takes place one week after the federal elections, likely highlighting political reflections from the floats.
New this year is the opportunity to experience the parade from five specially allocated rickshaws, with two seats available across 14 rickshaws for lucky ticket holders. The parade will also welcome international guests from Denmark, promising to add even more vibrancy to the event. The BZ Carnival Arena, appearing for the first time, will provide entertainment from 12:11 PM until 4:30 PM, complete with lively music and commentary.
Safety remains a top priority. The event will utilize over 900 barriers, with 50 personnel from the THW (Technical Relief Agency) involved. The police have committed around 500 officers to maintain order, alongside 170 personnel from the German Red Cross and the ASB (Workers' Samaritan Federation), all stationed along the parade route to provide medical assistance if needed.
To add to the festive spirit, spectators are encouraged to come dressed up, with viewer competitions rewarding the best-dressed groups, totaling up to €1,500 for winning entries. The lively atmosphere will continue with the after-party at the Volkswagen Halle, which opens at 5 PM and continues until approximately 10 PM, featuring DJ performances and live highlights from the day.
For those unable to attend, the parade will be live-streamed by NDR starting at 1 PM, allowing fans to watch from home.
Attendees should be aware of significant traffic restrictions as many routes will be closed to vehicles. The recommended method of arriving at the event is through public transport, as buses will operate more frequently on parade day.
The carnival traditions extend beyond Braunschweig, with other notable parades scheduled this year across Germany. The "Zug der fröhlichen Leute" - the largest carnival parade in East Germany - will be held in Cottbus, with expectations of over 40,000 attendees. The streets will also be lined with lively participants and performers, all celebrating the festive spirit.
Meanwhile, the Dömitz carnival parade at its 70th anniversary is anticipated to draw 1,000 participants and numerous spectators, making it the largest event of its kind in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. A heightened police presence will secure the area, implementing new safety measures to prevent any potential threats, as celebrations continue to evolve amid contemporary security challenges.
Germany's carnival festivities demonstrate not just the exuberance of local culture but also resilience as communities come together to celebrate and enjoy these beloved traditions, ensuring carnival celebrations continue to thrive well beyond 2025.