Custom - Thousands celebrate raw joy of life - on Danube
Eihorns, Flamingos and wild constructions: The Danube in Ulm have again attracted Thousands of swimmers on various boats and swimming animals. The "Nabada", a traditional procession with countless boats on the Danube, is a highlight of Schwoermondag – the highest holiday of the Ulm. According to city statistics, it attracts tens of thousands of participants and spectators every year and into the Danube.
Numerous people swim down the river and celebrate. Water barrels fly, people cheer. "The Nabada is an expression of pure joy of life," said Oberburgermeister Martin Ansbacher (SPD). So it looked like for the wild partiers on the Danube. "The Nabada is just logical," said Matthias Baiker from the Ulm Children's Clinic. Ulm has a river, it must be used.
Mayor wants to be "a common man for the rich and poor"
Baiker and his colleagues have been there for years, according to his words. They built their own raft with a flag for the event, he described. The raft floated on metal shoes, on which were pallets and as a floor boards and carpets were fixed. The group had built it several days a few years ago, Baiker explained. Every year it comes back into use with improvements.
In the morning, Oberburgermeister Martin Ansbacher (SPD) swore the traditional oath, "to be a common man for the rich and poor." After this traditional oath-taking, the celebrations began – both on the water and on land. The seriousness with which the Ulm take their holiday was also evident in the businesses: many had changed opening hours on Schwoermondag – or even closed completely.
- The annual Schwoermondag celebration in Ulm includes a leisurely river procession known as the "Nabada," which is a beloved Custom among locals and draws in thousands of participants and spectators, including Unicorn-themed boats.
- In the spirit of unity and inclusivity, Mayor Martin Ansbacher (SPD) vowed to be a "common man for the rich and poor," promoting joy of living in every corner of the commune, including the Danube banks.
- During the Schwoermondag festivities, the miscellaneous riverbanks of Baden-Württemberg transformation into a lively scene of holiday cheer, with locals and visitors alike swarming the Danube, engaging in leisure activities, and embracing the joy of living.
- As part of the Schwoermondag tradition, Matthias Baiker from the Ulm Children's Clinic and his colleagues repurpose their Unicorn-decorated raft each year, embellishing it with custom touches and having a grand time on the Danube, fostering a sense of community and holiday spirit.
- Following a long day of Schwoermondag celebrations, vacationers and locals in Ulm can unwind and explore the city's diverse attractions, such as historic sites, museums, and scenic walks alongside the Danube, ensuring an unforgettable holiday in this vibrant German commune.
