Not an official holiday
Carnival
01
Historical Context
Carnival is celebrated in the three days before Ash Wednesday, usually in February or March. It is especially popular in the south of the Netherlands.
Carnival has medieval roots as a feast before Lent. In the Netherlands, carnival is mainly a tradition in Noord-Brabant and Limburg, where cities temporarily receive a different name and the carnival prince rules.
During carnival, people in the south dress up in colourful costumes, parades wind through the streets, and parties are held in pubs and marquees. Cities receive a carnival name: Den Bosch becomes Oeteldonk, Eindhoven becomes Lampegat.
03
Frequently asked questions
Is carnival a day off?
No, carnival is not an official holiday. However, many people in the south take days off.
Where is carnival celebrated?
Carnival is especially popular in Noord-Brabant and Limburg. Den Bosch, Maastricht, Eindhoven, and Breda are known for their exuberant celebrations.