Nabada

When Ulm celebrates Schwörmontag (Oath Monday), the afternoon traditionally belongs to **Nabada**. After the oath ceremony at 11 a.m. at the Weinhof, the **Danube** is transformed into a colorful stage from around 4 p.m. onwards: the floating parade moves down the Danube – loud, creative, and unmistakably Ulm. At the heart of Nabada are the elaborately designed themed boats. Clubs, groups, and initiatives take up current political and social issues – pointedly, humorously, and with a great deal of craftsmanship. They are accompanied by music boats with bands and ensembles. The audience votes to decide which musical act is the most convincing – a democratic detail that perfectly reflects the character of the festival. In addition to the official boats, numerous "water rats" plunge into the Danube with their homemade vessels. Along the approximately seven-kilometer route, people paddle, drift and celebrate – from rubber dinghies to adventurous constructions. Nabada thrives on this mixture of organization and anarchic charm. The boozy day doesn't end on the riverbank: in Friedrichsau, in squares in the city center, and in the old town, live music, food, and spontaneous celebrations ensure a long summer evening. Short distances, great atmosphere, and a city that celebrates together.