Nabada (River Festival)
Spectators watch the colorful flotilla, enjoy folk music on riverbanks, and see fireworks over the Danube in the evening
Ulm Oath Monday
Ulmer Schwörmontag
Ulm, Germany
Jul 20, 2026Expected
Each July, the city of Ulm marks Schwörmontag, when the mayor stands on a balcony and swears, as mayors have since 1345, to govern justly. The old oath of this once-free imperial city is followed by lively festivities, in a proud day of local democracy and civic pride reaching back nearly seven centuries.
Key moments
Schwörrede (Mayor’s Swearing Ceremony)
Participants stand in the plaza listening as the Mayor swears to serve all citizens; the event is formal but with public attendance.
~10:00
Where it happens
Schwörhaus (Rathaus Ulm)
Ulm, Germany
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Plan the timing
Water gear / floatation devices (for Nabada)
Read the local rhythm
Picnic or outdoor seating (for park events)
Arrive before peak flow
Arrive early for prime viewing, remain respectful and quiet during the oath reading; follow...
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Crowd level: very high.
Tickets
Free events are available.
Reviewed mediaMAJOR COMMUNITY & FOLK LIFE
Ulm Oath Monday
Ulmer Schwörmontag
Ulm, Germany
Each July, the city of Ulm marks Schwörmontag, when the mayor stands on a balcony and swears, as mayors have since 1345, to govern justly. The old oath of this once-free imperial city is followed by lively festivities, in a proud day of local democracy and civic pride reaching back nearly seven centuries.
AnchorCultural anchor
Jul 20, 2026Expected dates
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The story behind it
This day is a proud Ulm tradition reflecting its history as a Free Imperial City. The oath ceremony emphasizes the city’s values of social equality (rich vs. poor alike) and civic responsibility. The subsequent river carnival (Nabada) exemplifies the citizen spirit and communal joy of Swabian culture on the Danube.
Key moments to know
Nabada (River Festival)
Spectators watch the colorful flotilla, enjoy folk music on riverbanks, and see fireworks over the Danube in the evening
~10:00Expected
Schwörrede (Mayor’s Swearing Ceremony)
Participants stand in the plaza listening as the Mayor swears to serve all citizens; the event is formal but with public attendance.
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Plan the timing
Water gear / floatation devices (for Nabada)
Read the local rhythm
Picnic or outdoor seating (for park events)
Arrive before peak flow
Arrive early for prime viewing, remain respectful and quiet during the oath reading; follow staff instructions...
Photo with care
Observe the oath Ceremony quietly; during the Nabada, participate respectfully and clean up any trash.
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Jul 20, 2026
Estimated
City / Area
Ulm
Upper Swabia
Cost
Free public events available
Good for
Families welcome
Very High visitor welcome
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