Swearing Monday 2026: Ulm's Great Tradition Day with Nabada on the Danube
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Swearing Monday 2026: Ulm's biggest summer event with goosebumps and Danube feeling
On July 20, 2026, Ulm transforms into a city full of tradition, movement, and festival atmosphere. Swearing Monday brings a multi-day city feeling into a single, intense celebration day with the swearing ceremony in the morning and the legendary water parade Nabada in the afternoon. The swearing ceremony officially begins at 11 a.m. in the Weinhof, and the Nabada starts at 4 p.m. on the Danube. ([ulm.de](https://www.ulm.de/tourismus/stadtgeschichte/feste-und-traditionen/schwoermontag))
The Swearing Ceremony: History, Civic Spirit, and a Moment of Symbolism
When Mayor Martin Ansbacher speaks from the balcony of the Swearing House, historical tradition meets vibrant present. Swearing Monday is far more than a date on the calendar: it is Ulm's identity-forming city holiday, where locals, returnees, and guests gather closely near the Weinhof. The city of Ulm describes the day as a lively continuation of a centuries-old imperial city tradition. ([ulm.de](https://www.ulm.de/tourismus/stadtgeschichte/feste-und-traditionen/schwoermontag))
Nabada on the Danube: Water Parade, Team Spirit, and Summer Buzz
In the afternoon, the Danube takes the leading role. The Nabada starts at 4 p.m. and runs along the route from the Adenauer Bridge along the city wall to Friedrichsau. Official sources describe it as a water parade featuring themed boats, rafts, and plenty of imagination. The character resembles a carnival parade on the water, only with Swabian handwriting, summer heat, and real community spirit. ([ulm.de](https://www.ulm.de/tourismus/stadtgeschichte/feste-und-traditionen/nabada?id=115877&navi=3076%2C3665%2C115874%2C115877))
City Festival, Party Zones, and Long Evenings
After the Nabada, the celebrations continue in Friedrichsau and in many areas of the city center. Even though the day holds deep tradition, it thrives on its open festival atmosphere, spontaneous togetherness, and a city that pulsates in a state of emergency on this day. Those who experience Ulm on this Monday enjoy customs, open-air vibes, and summer festival culture in a particularly dense form. ([ulm.de](https://www.ulm.de/tourismus/stadtgeschichte/feste-und-traditionen/schwoermontag))
Practical Information for Visitors
The Nabada is free of charge and does not require a ticket. Viewing is possible from both Ulm and Neu-Ulm sides. A barrier-free area is provided at the Adlerbastei for wheelchair users. On the day of the event, a one-way pedestrian traffic will be set up along the Ulm Danube bank; the river paths at bridge construction sites are closed. The Nabada takes place in rain; it is only cancelled in case of flooding or thunderstorms. ([ulm.de](https://www.ulm.de/tourismus/stadtgeschichte/feste-und-traditionen/nabada?id=115877&navi=3076%2C3665%2C115874%2C115877))
Conclusion: A Day that Makes Ulm Ring in a Unique Way
Swearing Monday and Nabada unite history, pride in the city, and summer energy into an experience that goes far beyond an ordinary city festival. Those who experience this festival live feel Ulm in a state of emergency: close, loud, colorful, and full of tradition. It is here that the special magic arises, attracting thousands to the Danube year after year. ([ulm.de](https://www.ulm.de/tourismus/stadtgeschichte/feste-und-traditionen/schwoermontag))
Official Channels of Swearing Monday:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ulmentdecken/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ulmentdecken
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/UlmTourismus/
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ulmentdecken
