Volunteering, youth development and strong partners ensure the smooth operation of the club
The Arheilgen Carnival Club (KCA) has been an integral part of the cultural life of the district for more than five decades. With around 300 members, including over 100 children and young people, the club shapes the traditional carnival sessions as well as numerous events for all generations. From children's costume balls and family sessions to afternoons of doughnuts for senior citizens, the KCA stands for a vibrant community, volunteer work, and a strong focus on youth development. Anja Herdel answered the interview on behalf of the board
The Arheilgen Carnival Club looks back on a long history. What significance does carnival still hold for Arheilgen and its residents today?
Arheilgen now boasts two carnival clubs: the Arheilgen Guard Corps (AGC) and the Arheilgen Carnival Club (KCA). This demonstrates that carnival has been a major tradition here for over 50 years. It remains vibrant and youthful to this day. Over 100 young people are active in the KCA, which has a total membership of around 297. The club's events are well-attended, and the children's events are almost always sold out.
What distinguishes the Arheilgen Carnival from other carnival clubs in Darmstadt and the surrounding region?
We are very fortunate that in Arheilgen, many girls and boys as young as three want to join us and, thanks to our equally young and dedicated coaching team, are able to do so. This wouldn't be possible without a strong club structure. Often, entire families are involved across generations. The carnival season here is vibrant, with events like the Ladies' Session, the KCA Session, and the Family Session. In addition, there's the afternoon of doughnuts for senior citizens, the "Party Alarm" for teenagers, the children's costume balls, and the joint AEWG parade with the neighboring communities of Erzhausen, Wixhausen, and Gräfenhausen.
Carnival thrives on volunteer work and community spirit. How many people are currently involved in the club, and what motivates them to invest their time and energy year after year?
We're motivated by the joy of carnival and the sense of community that comes from creating something together. A whole year is spent planning and preparing, culminating in seeing the result on stage and experiencing the applause. That feeling when a performance is a success, an event goes well, the audience applauds and is already asking for tickets for next year, is a huge driving force. The KCA has many dedicated members, but often it's not enough. The numerous events need to be organized and carried out. That's why we're always looking for volunteers who share our enthusiasm and commitment.
How do you manage to preserve traditions while simultaneously introducing new ideas, for example, in meetings, programs, or youth outreach?
It's a constant negotiation between young and old, new and long-standing members, and differing interests. But that's precisely where the appeal lies. It's about preserving traditions while carefully developing them further. Every generation of carnival enthusiasts leaves its mark, from which new traditions emerge. When we discuss so-called "old habits," we quickly realize what's truly important to us and why. Our young members contribute many excellent ideas, regardless of age. That's what makes it exciting. It's always the same, yet somehow different.
What organizational and financial challenges does hosting campaigns, meetings, and events entail today, and what role does Merck's support play in the club's continued existence?
Without our sponsors and neighbors like Merck, we simply couldn't hold any events today. Previously, it was possible to finance a campaign through our own revenue during Carnival season, summer events, membership fees, or grants, for example, for senior citizen events. With today's regulations and significantly increased costs, this is no longer feasible. Hall rentals for events and training facilities, as well as expenses for security and infrastructure, have risen dramatically. Without Merck's support, holding our events would no longer be possible. That's why we are proud to have a sponsor, partner, and neighbor like Merck. They are approachable, responsive, and provide reliable support. What are your hopes for the future of the Carnival Club, and how can interested citizens support the club or become involved?
We welcome new members and volunteers who enjoy Carnival, celebrating, dancing, and community. We are also delighted to welcome new members and everyone who attends our events and enjoys themselves. They, too, contribute to the continuation of our club's work. Furthermore, we are grateful for donations, for example, for costumes, youth programs, or events. There's something for everyone here. We look forward to seeing you!
Liveable Darmstadt
powered by MerckClubs and associations are the heart of a community. They foster social integration and bring people together. They enrich local life through cultural and sporting activities, offer educational opportunities, and are involved in social projects. In short: they make a city like Darmstadt a great place to live.
But this costs money. Membership fees aren't always enough. In this series, we present selected Darmstadt clubs and associations that are supported by Merck – be it in sports, culture, community service, or science education.
Each of these clubs has a unique story and contributes to strengthening the community in its own way. We asked the organizers what makes their club special and how the partnership with Merck not only provides financial support but also fosters growth and development.
Learn more about the diverse club and association scene in Darmstadt and how Merck and its partners are achieving more together – for a region worth living in.
