Stadt Ellwangen

Annual Events

Whoa!!! Halt!

Welcome to Ellwangen's famous horse show, the Cold Market, a historic winter market which is rich in tradition.

Icy cold weather, steaming horses and a bustling atmosphere in the local pubs and taverns, vividly describe this age-old horse market, first recorded in the 14th century.

And as you might have guessed, this unique event takes place during the second week in January.

A real feast for the eyes - not only for the horse-fans - is the huge historic procession with its 300 horses, riders and carriages, as it winds its way through the old town.

The Ellwangen Fastnacht

In complete contrast, the Ellwangen Fastnacht (Carnival) appears haunting and mysterious on Shrovetide Sunday.

Whip-swinging, bearing torches and cloaked in black dominoes, the ghostly messengers of the Pennäler Schnitzelbank* march into town just after nightfall, with the intention of reciting their biting and wicked verse about the local VIPs.

"The Silentium", a vow of silence must be made by the darkly-clad figures (die Schwarze Schar), who perform this spectacle anonymously.

It's the ’Heimattage’, ’the’ annual town festival, which proves that traditions are not just being kept alive, but are still being celebrated in Ellwangen today.

In July, the slogan on the town's banners reads - ’Be a guest of the prince-provost’ - welcoming our visitors to join the festivities in the atmospheric castle courtyard - where roasted ox from the spit is served.

A popular and colourful country festival, made endearing by its townsfolk, successfully blending princely ambience with simple pleasures.

* A unique Ellwangen carnival society which dates back about 150 years.