This procession is one of the largest and most popular in Germany with more than 6000 people taking part, parading through the streets in their fancy dresses or dancing on one of the 60 carnival floats. Each year this major spectacle attracts an audience of more than one million viewers.

Before this huge parade starts, it is common to meet up in one of the various pubs in the old town to enjoy the local beer. This parade demonstrates the highlight of the so-called "fifth season" (carnival season) which starts in November and ends in February.