Few holidays can outshine the joyful and colourful energy brought to Belgium by Carnival festivities.
While the meaning and traditions of the holiday are a no-brainer for locals, newcomers might still wonder: how is Carnival celebrated in Belgium?
Unclear history
Carnival can be traced back to ancient times, although its origins remain unclear. While commonly celebrated in Christian countries ahead of Easter, Carnival is thought to derive from pagan traditions.
Some believe that the holiday may have roots in ancient New Year celebrations or incorporate elements of the pagan Roman festival Saturnalia, which honours the Roman God Saturn.
Drawing depicting a drunken reveler being carried away by his friends during the Saturnalia. Credit: Wikimedia Commons / John Reinhard Weguelin
The Carnival period varies across countries and cities, although it typically takes place anywhere between January and March.
The holiday is commonly celebrated in the days leading up to Lent, which begins on Ash Wednesday, the 40 days before Easter. Carnival is intended as a way to prepare for the period of fasting and abstinence.
However, Carnival has departed from its religious associations in many places, and has turned into a time dedicated to merrymaking and feasting.
While it is not a public holiday or strictly Belgian celebration, this does not stop the colourful costumes, parades and parties from taking to the streets across the country around this time of year.
Celebrations in Belgium
Despite not being a public holiday, it is common for schools to engage in the celebrations. While activities vary, pupils can expect a day of music, treats and costumes.
Outside the classroom, opportunities for celebration are abundant.
Wallonia
In 2003, the Binche Carnival (Hainaut province) was named Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
The three-day affair features one of the oldest Carnival parades in the world, fireworks, musical activities for children, and local men dressed up as 'Gilles'.
The 'Gilles' costume – which includes a white cotton cap, a blouse and jute trousers with 150 patterns – is traditional to Binche and is reserved only for men who have lived in Binche for at least five years or from families from Binche.
The Gilles carnivalists pictured at the carnival in the streets of Binche in 2024. Credit: Belga / Eric Lalmand
Notably, Binche Carnival is also home to the orange-throwing tradition, where the Gilles throw oranges at the public for good luck. The tradition dates back to the 19th century Carnivals when food was provided to help people put on some weight before fasting during Lent.
While Binche is arguably Wallonia's most iconic Carnival, it is certainly not the only one. The Carnival of Satvelot in the Ardennes is also worth a visit.
Flanders
A few years after Binche was recognised, Flanders also made a splash in UNESCO's list in 2010 with the carnival in Aalst (East Flanders).
The city's celebration is known for its satirical costumes and parade floats. Just like in Binche, the carnival takes place over three days. In addition to the parade, it also features the folkloric broom dance and the popular onion tossing.
Aalst carnival in 2023. Credit: Belga / Nicolas Maeterlinck
However, Aalst's UNESCO title was not long-lived. In 2018, the carnival caused controversy due to a float that was considered anti-Semitic. The following year, expecting UNESCO to withdraw the title, Aalst mayor Christoph D'Haese (N-VA) decided to get one step ahead and requested the status be revoked.
This was the first time something was removed from UNESCO's Intangible Heritage of Humanity list. However, losing the status did not get in the way of continuing the festivities, which are celebrated to this day. "We are neither anti-Semitic nor racist. Aalst will always remain the capital of mockery and satire," he said in a press release at the time.
Carnival parade in the streets of Aalst in 2024. Credit: Belga / Nicolas Maeterlinck
Elsewhere in Flanders, Halle Carnival (Flemish Brabant), Sintruin Carnival (Limburg) and Essen Carnival (Antwerp) are all known for their festivities.
Brussels
In Brussels, one of the annual Carnival celebrations has its origins in Bolivia, namely the Oruro Carnival parade.
Brussel's iconic Manneken-Pis often joins the celebrations by flaunting a new Carnival-themed outfit.
Credit: Brussels City
Other activities such as dance classes, exhibits, and Latin-themed parties are typically on offer to bring more Carnival cheer to the capital.
