Carnival of Cernay

The Carnival of Cernay: the grand finale of the Alsatian carnival season

While most Alsatian carnivals take place between January and March, Cernay is an exception, organizing its carnival in April, well after Mardi Gras. This late-season position gives the Carnival of Cernay a special status: that of the grand carnival finale of the Haut-Rhin. And what a finale! Considered one of the largest carnivals in the department after that of Mulhouse, it attracts a considerable crowd every year to the streets of this town located at the foot of the Vosges, between Thann and Mulhouse.

A tradition carried by AMAC

The Carnival of Cernay is organized by the AMAC (Association Musicale et d'Animation de Cernay). Created in 2009, this association took over and developed a carnival tradition that dates back to the late 1990s in Cernay. In 2017, the carnival was already celebrating its 19th edition, demonstrating a solid rooting in local life. AMAC brings together volunteers, musicians, and enthusiasts to offer a memorable weekend of festivities.

The costume ball and the election of the Royal Trio

The festivities begin on Saturday evening with the costume ball at the Espace Grün. This themed evening (western, roaring twenties, fairy tales...) is hosted by a DJ or MC and is a highlight of Cernay's carnival life. The highlight of the evening is the election of the Royal Trio — the Queen and her attendants — who will preside over the next day's festivities from the royal float.

The grand parade

Sunday is the day of the grand parade. The procession starts at 2:31 PM (odd minutes bring good luck in carnival!) and travels through the streets of Cernay's city center. The parade brings together dozens of decorated floats, musical groups, wild Guggen Musik bands, majorettes, Waggis throwing confetti, and the royal float carrying the newly elected Queen. Spectators gather along the route, from Rue Guibert to the Espace Grün square.

The grand finale show

The parade concludes with a grand finale show on the Espace Grün square. All participants gather for a final collective performance: music, dance, outdoor Guggen Musik, and majorettes offer a magnificent finale that beautifully closes the carnival and, with it, the entire Alsatian carnival season. It's a moment of festive communion where the crowd actively participates, singing and dancing with the carnival-goers.

A family-friendly and accessible carnival

The Carnival of Cernay is distinguished by its family-friendly nature. Activities are planned for children, and the route is accessible to people with reduced mobility. The good-natured atmosphere, flying confetti, and raining candy make this event a highly anticipated gathering for all generations of Cernay residents and surrounding areas.