Carnaval de Binche

Carnaval de Binche is held to bid farewell to the bitter winter and welcome the approach of spring. This event is one of Europe's most well-known, and it was named a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2003. The celebration has a religious theme.

The Carnaval de Binche, which has its origins in pagan ceremonies, began in 1395. (rites that were later merged with Christian celebrations). The festival lasts three days. When this celebration takes place, numerous distinctive and amazing costumes line the streets, marking the end of the chilly winter. Many individuals dressed up to follow the group and mingle with the audience in order to build enthusiasm for the event. Many people are dancing to the music and executing parade moves throughout the highways and streets. Apart from the fact that the participants dress up in bright costumes, they will also wear large white ostrich feather crowns and wooden shoes while dancing to the beat of the drums.

The Carnaval de Binche celebration is a colorful race in various costumes, similar to waking up after a lengthy slumber during a cold winter. Mimosa blooms as bright as the sun adorned the brims of women's caps and the sombre chests of men. The members of the group donned unique outfits. People in the city dressed up in bright costumes drawn from old myths and danced to the rhythm of drums. All of this contributes to the festival's vivid and colorful atmosphere.

Date: 27th February - 1st March
Location: Binche, Belgium