The Fritschi Parade Route on Dirty Thursday

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Lucerne official info.

The procession moves across the Seebrücke bridge toward the railway station. You will hear loud Guggenmusik bands playing throughout the entire route. The parade typically lasts about two hours from start to finish. It is the most famous event of the festival.

Participants throw oranges and sweets to the cheering crowds along the way. Make sure to wear your traditional costumes for Lucerne Carnival to fit in. The route follows a loop that returns near the city center. This allows everyone to see the floats clearly.

Monday Wey Parade Route Details

The Wey parade takes place on Güdis Monday, February 16, 2026. This event starts at 2:00 PM and follows a similar path to Thursday. It begins at the Schweizerhofquai and moves toward the Pilatusstrasse. The atmosphere is slightly more relaxed but still very energetic.

You can view the map on the Lucerne Tourism website for precise street names. The parade features different guilds and creative floats each year. Many locals consider this their favorite part of the week. It showcases the deep community spirit of Lucerne.

The route passes many historic buildings and scenic waterfront locations. You should arrive at least one hour before the start time. Most streets close to traffic several hours before the parade begins. Public transport is the best way to reach the city.

The Tuesday Night Monstercorso Route

The Monstercorso is the grand finale of the Lucerne Carnival. It happens on the evening of Tuesday, February 17, 2026. This parade focuses on the loud and brassy Guggenmusik bands. It starts at 7:30 PM and lights up the night.

The route starts at the Bahnhofstrasse and heads toward the Old Town. Bands march in a specific order to create a wall of sound. You will feel the rhythm of the drums deep in your chest. It is a truly immersive musical experience.

This parade is perfect for those who love high-energy music and dancing. Check our guide on best places to see Guggenmusik Lucerne for more tips. The event usually ends late into the night at the Mühlenplatz. It is a spectacular way to end the week.

Practical Tips for the Lucerne Carnival Parade Route and Map

Understanding the Lucerne Carnival parade route and map requires some local knowledge. Most parades focus on the area between the train station and the lake. Look for the yellow barriers that mark the official procession lines. These areas offer the safest places for spectators to stand.

• The Seebrücke bridge offers great views but gets very crowded.
• Kapellplatz is a central hub for many festival activities.
• Lowenplatz is often less crowded for the start of parades.
• The Old Town squares are best for hearing the music.

Wear warm layers as February in Switzerland can be quite cold. Many local shops sell hot cider and snacks along the route. Prices for street food usually range from 5 to 15 Swiss Francs. Keep some cash on hand for small vendors.

Family Friendly Viewing Areas

Families should look for wider streets along the parade route. The area near the Schweizerhof hotel provides more space for strollers. It is easier to exit these spots if the kids get tired. Plan for a few breaks during the long processions.

You can find more advice in our Lucerne Carnival 2026 events for families guide. Many children enjoy the colorful masks and the candy thrown from floats. Ensure your children have ear protection for the loud music. The Guggenmusik can be quite intense for small ears.

Arrive early to find a spot near a public restroom. Most large department stores in the center have facilities available. Some may charge a small fee of 1 Franc. Knowing these locations helps make the day much smoother.