The mayor of Aalst, Christoph D’Haese (N-VA), expects 100,000 visitors at the city’s carnival on Sunday.
The parade will pass through the city’s streets on Sunday afternoon. Many spectators are standing in the bright sunshine to admire the floats and groups. “With the good weather, this could be a record edition. We’re aiming for 100,000 visitors,” says D’Haese.
Last year, around 80,000 people attended, and the large crowds require extensive security measures. “This is the biggest security test in the country, a real feat. We’re employing 855 police shifts and have put down extra concrete blocks. There are also several security vehicles with private guards,” he explains.
The mayor is also aiming for an environmentally friendly event with reusable cups. “We’re doing everything to make it a worthy celebration,” he says. “No one will escape the dance of humour and irony here in Aalst. Even I will be laughed at.”
D’Haese drew inspiration for his costume from his party colleague and Prime Minister Bart De Wever. “I replaced De Wever’s eagle with the onion, a typical symbol here in Aalst,” he adds.
