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Floating Through Tradition: Our Unforgettable Oath Experience in Ulm

Updated: 2 days ago


Germany has no shortage of beautiful festivals, but Oath Week (Schwörwoche) in Ulm is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. It’s not just another summer celebration, it’s a centuries-old tradition where history, community, and pure fun come together on the Danube River.


The festival dates back to the 14th century. Every year on Oath Monday (Schwörmontag), the Mayor of Ulm takes a historic oath to govern fairly, standing equally for both the rich and the poor. What follows is the famous Nabada, where thousands of people take to the Danube on inflatable boats, rafts, kayaks, and the traditional wooden boats known as Ulmer Schachteln. Watching the city transform into one giant floating celebration is something truly special.



Our day started early as I prepared to meet a friend from Stuttgart before heading to Ulm together, where two more friends were already waiting for us. In true “me” fashion, I realized halfway through the trip that I had completely forgotten to pack my swimwear. So before anything else, I had to rush out and buy a new one! Thanks to this friend who paid for it!


By the time we arrived, another two friends had already started preparing our inflatable boat, busy pumping air into it while everyone else sorted out the essentials, snacks, drinks, and of course, plenty of bottles of beer. Once everything was ready, we joined the thousands of participants making their way toward the river.


We walked for around 30 minutes alongside crowds carrying colorful inflatables, paddles, and coolers until we found the perfect launch spot. The excitement was contagious. Everywhere we looked, groups of friends were laughing, cheering, and getting ready for the adventure ahead.


Then… we were off.

For nearly two hours, we simply floated down the Danube, letting the gentle current carry us through the city. It wasn’t just about relaxing—it quickly turned into one giant floating water battle. Boats passed one another armed with water guns, buckets, and endless determination to soak complete strangers.

We quickly became one of their targets.

Every few minutes, another wave of water came flying toward us. Sometimes it was a bucket, sometimes a super soaker, and occasionally an entire boat teamed up against us! We tried fighting back, but eventually we just accepted that staying dry was impossible. Before long, we were completely drenched from head to toe and laughing harder every minute.


The best part wasn’t even the drinks. It was how everyone interacted. People from different boats waved, joked, splashed one another, sang together, and celebrated as if they had known each other for years. It didn’t matter where you came from; for those two hours, everyone shared the same river and the same carefree spirit.

Eventually, we reached the end of the route, but none of us were ready for the day to end.

We made our way back into Ulm’s city center, where the festival atmosphere was still in full swing.

Every street was alive with people. Every corner featured a small stage with live music or performances, while restaurants and pubs had extended their bars outdoors to keep up with the incredible crowds.


It was almost impossible to walk through the streets because they were packed with festival-goers enjoying the warm summer evening.


To cool off after our river adventure, we grabbed ice-cold drinks and simply wandered around, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Music echoed through the streets, laughter filled the air, and the entire city felt like one enormous celebration.


Oath Week reminded me that some of the best travel experiences aren’t found in famous landmarks they’re found in traditions that bring people together.


Floating down the Danube, getting soaked by complete strangers, sharing laughs with friends old and new, and ending the evening surrounded by music and celebration made for a day I’ll never forget.

If you ever find yourself in southern Germany in late July, don’t just visit Ulm - experience Schwörwoche.


Bring your friends, pack your swimwear (don’t make the same mistake I did), and prepare to leave completely soaked, wonderfully exhausted, and already looking forward to coming back next year.

counts.


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This blog is where art meets adventure. You’ll find travel stories, behind-the-scenes of my creative projects, event experiences, personal reflections, practical travel tips, and honest moments from a life that’s constantly evolving.

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