Carnival in Limburg for dummies: everything you need to know!
Experience Limburg's Carnival Extravaganza - A riot of colors and music awaits you in February or March. Join the festive tradition, even if you're not from Limburg. Discover Carnival in Limburg, a beginner's guide!
(headerfoto: Jean Pierre Geusens / Maastricht Marketing)
Photo by Jose P. Ortiz on Unsplash
When does Carnival start in Limburg?
The first day of Carnival traditionally falls seven weeks before Easter Sunday. This is the first Sunday after the first full moon following the start of spring (March 21). Since Easter doesn't occur on the same date every year, the start of Carnival varies each year. So, be sure to Google it on time!
Photo by Jose P. Ortiz on Unsplash
How long does Carnival last in Limburg?
According to tradition, Carnival lasts for three days: Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. The period concludes on Wednesday - 'Ash Wednesday' - but it's not an official carnival day. To make it even more complicated, the carnival season starts every year on November 11th - the '11th of November' - with various grand opening festivities. From that date, preparations begin for the actual carnival period, including the proclamation of the Carnival prince and joyful afternoon and evening celebrations known as 'zittingen'
Photo by Mika Baumeister on Unsplash
What's the real deal with Carnival?
The word 'carnival' is derived from the Italian term 'carne levare,' meaning 'to remove meat.' It's originally a Catholic celebration that marks the start of the 40-day fasting period leading up to Easter. Historically, it's a festival where social roles are reversed. This is how the Carnival prince came into being, proclaimed in each community and symbolically holding power during the three carnival days. That's why, before the carnival, the prince receives 'the key to the city' in a festive ceremony from the mayor.
Photo by Marilyn Paige on Unsplash
Is Carnival the same everywhere in Limburg?
Oh, absolutely not! Each city and village celebrates Carnival in its own unique way. Locally, there are numerous distinct traditions and customs, from North to South Limburg. Too many to list! Head to any random place and immerse yourself in the local culture!
Photo by Mika Baumeister on Unsplash
Carnival in Limburg = Vastelaovend
Vastelaovend, sjiengeleboem! When you're in Limburg during Carnival, you'll surely hear that cheer. But what is Vastelaovend, you may wonder. Vastelaovend is the dialect term for 'vastenavond' (Shrove Tuesday), as Carnival is celebrated on the eve of the fasting period.
Photo by Mika Baumeister on Unsplash
Everywhere, there are parades
During Carnival, parades march through the streets in every city and village. Each place holds its parade on a different day. The parades are formed by the revelers themselves, in organized groups, with or without floats. Music bands like fanfares, harmonies, and brass bands also participate. Some parades are grander than others. For instance, the parade in Maastricht - known as "Boonte Störrem" in Limburgish - is exceptionally long. The final groups and floats often arrive at the endpoint of the route only during the twilight hours. Large cities like Heerlen, Sittard, Weert, Roermond, and Venlo also boast lengthy parades. Yet, even the parades in small communities are worth a visit. The Carnival prince always takes center stage in the festivities, riding on his own float. Kids love it when the prince throws sweets from his float!
Is Carnival just about drinking beer, right?
Watch what you say! For the majority of Limburgers, Carnival is much more than that! It's a celebration that has been passed down for generations and instilled in many from a young age. It's a vital part of Limburg's culture and identity, far from being "vulgar" or merely a "drinking fest." While beer is indeed consumed aplenty – regular pilsner, as well as "halfom" (a mix of pilsner and oud bruin beer) and "sjoes" (a blend of pilsner and oud bruin, with varying ratios from place to place). These traditions often date back centuries and are meticulously preserved with great care and attention to detail. They are deeply respected throughout the region, so no joking about the Carnival prince!
