On February 28, 1954, a Carnival parade took place in Erlangen for the first time since World War II. The *Tagblatt* described it as a “colorful ‘column of humor’” — a peculiar relapse into military jargon. In the years immediately following the war, celebrations had been limited to indoor venues. In 1954, Carnival balls were, of course, also held at the Redoutensaal, the Studentenhaus, the Waldschießhaus, and the Kolosseum—but the first public parade in many years still attracted a great deal of attention. The Erlanger Tagblatt of March 1, 1954, listed 50 groups and floats that took part in the colorful festivities—right in the middle of it all were the prince and princess, Lenz I and Ingrid I.
Press photos document how people crowded the market square to see the “carnival royalty” and their entourage. Even if, from today’s perspective, the allusions and jokes on the individual floats are no longer entirely understandable, one contemporary’s verdict was clear: “It was great, but we could have used a little more music.”
Photo: Carnival 1954—In front of City Hall, the prince and princess are just stepping out of the state carriage, with the guard forming a guard of honor (Photo: Rudi Stümpel).
More About the City's History
City archive
The Erlangen City Archive is the official memory of Erlangen. The main tasks of the city archive include the permanent storage and cataloging of collections.
Short Stories from the City
Erlangen has a long and interesting history. There's a lot to tell. A look back.
City archive
The Erlangen City Archive is the official memory of Erlangen. The main tasks of the city archive include the permanent storage and cataloging of collections.
Short Stories from the City
Erlangen has a long and interesting history. There's a lot to tell. A look back.