NEW ULM — Fasching, a traditional German celebration observed worldwide by people with German heritage, began in the New Ulm Public Library meeting room Saturday.

The Narren and Miss New Ulm royalty began the party doing “The Chicken Dance” with children.

Introductions of The Narren and Miss New Ulm royalty followed before more dancing.

Fasching continues at 12:15 p.m. Friday when The Narren capture New Ulm Mayor Kathleen Backer and escort her on downtown sidewalks with Dain Moldan and Adam Munstermann providing music.

The entourage will dance to music at nine downtown businesses including bars and banks.

Fasching continues with games and The Narren singing and dancing to music by The Wendinger Band, 1-5 p.m. Saturday at the Best Western Plus.

Since 1989, The Narren with their hand-carved masks and colorful costumes always have time for photo opportunities and to entertain people of all ages, promoting New Ulm and German culture.

Fasching is defined as pre-Lenten festivities in most German regions that culminate on Fasching week that begins the week before Ash Wednesday.

Schell’s Bockfest 2024 is set for March 2. The Bockfest Boys and White Iron Band will perform on the main stage. DJ Strudel Boy will perform on the lower level.

The White Iron Band that began in Ely, performs blues, country and American roots music. They are advertised as supporting and sharing the stage with a number of notable bands including Lynyrd Skynyrd, Charlie Daniels, Trampled By Turtles and more.