There are tons of great festivals and events that take place throughout the year in Belgium, but few can rival the tradition and exuberance of the Carnival of Binche. Every February on the three days leading up to Lent, the town of Binche puts on its world-famous carnival, which is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.Binche, is found in the Walloon region of the country, which is predominantly French-speaking. It is a small Medieval town with just over 30,000 residents, but this small town knows how to throw a party.
On Fat Monday, the Gilles dance in the streets of Binche to music that is supplied by barrel organ players. There is a confetti battle on Fat Monday as well, and the highlights also feature the circle of friendship that is formed by members from various youth groups.
Monday ends in fireworks, which helps to continue the fanfare, but no day is bigger than Fat Tuesday, or Mardi Gras. Fat Tuesday is the only day in which the famed Gilles wear their costumes all day long, from sunup to sundown.
In addition to the Gilles, harlequins, Pierrots, and peasant characters help to make Fat Tuesday even more special, and you’ll want to pay attention to the fancy footwork that some of the dancers put on. The last procession on Mardi Gras takes place at around 3 p.m., and it is when the Gilles are known to toss oranges to and at crowd members, so keep your eyes peeled.
After the last procession, folks generally mill about the town center, enjoying further celebrations. The evening is capped off with the week’s best fireworks show.
Some other Carnivals around Belgium worth checking out:
Carvaval de Malmedy March 5-8
Carnaval de Amay March 6
Carnaval de la Grosse Biesse Marche en Famenne March 5 and 6
Carnaval de Aalst March 6
