If you have recently moved to the Netherlands from South Africa, Carnival might come as a surprise. While the country is known internationally for events like King’s Day and Sinterklaas, the southern regions celebrate something completely different and far louder: Carnival, known locally as Carnaval.
Carnival is celebrated mainly in the southern provinces of Limburg and North Brabant, with a few nearby areas joining in as well. For several days, cities and towns are transformed by music, parades and colourful costumes. Some places even temporarily change their names. Eindhoven becomes Lampegat, Den Bosch turns into Oeteldonk and Tilburg is known as Kruikenstad. It is festive, social and unapologetically lively.
Where and When to Celebrate Carnival in the Netherlands
Carnival usually takes place in February and runs from Friday through to Tuesday, with the busiest days falling over the weekend. The heart of the celebrations is always in the south, so if you live elsewhere in the Netherlands, travelling south is essential if you want to experience it properly.
Customs and Traditions Explained
Carnival is built around the idea of turning everyday life upside down. One of the most important traditions is the symbolic handover of the city keys from the mayor to the Prins Carnaval. For a few days, the Prince and their court officially take over the city, setting the tone for celebration and humour.
Music is everywhere. Carnival songs are upbeat, catchy and often intentionally silly or satirical. Marching bands, party music and local favourites fill streets, squares and bars from morning until late at night.
You will also hear one word constantly: Alaaf. It is the traditional Carnival greeting and is used between strangers as easily as between friends.
What to Wear
During Carnival, everyone dresses up. There are no rules and no expectations of perfection. Costumes range from vintage outfits and exaggerated characters to political satire and bright, mismatched colours.
If you are unsure what to wear, remember this simple rule: more colour is always better than less.
Maastricht (Vastelaovend)
In Limburg, Carnival is known as Vastelaovend and Maastricht is one of its cultural centres. Official celebrations run from Sunday 15 February to Tuesday 17 February, although events begin earlier.
The main parade takes place on Sunday at around 13:30, moving through the city centre including Vrijthof and Markt. Maastricht offers a traditional and musical Carnival experience that feels deeply local.
Eindhoven (Lampegat)
During Carnival, Eindhoven becomes Lampegat. Celebrations run from Friday 13 February to Tuesday 17 February.
The main parade takes place on Saturday 14 February at around 13:30 in the city centre. Eindhoven is known for its open atmosphere, busy streets and large party tents on Markt, Stadhuisplein and Wilhelminaplein. It is an ideal city for first time Carnival visitors.
Den Bosch (Oeteldonk)
Den Bosch, known as Oeteldonk during Carnival, hosts one of the most iconic celebrations in the Netherlands. Events take place from Sunday 15 February to Tuesday 17 February.
The main parade is held on Monday 16 February at around 11:00. Oeteldonk Carnival is highly traditional, with strong symbols, colours and rituals that locals take seriously.
Tilburg (Kruikenstad)
Tilburg celebrates Carnival as Kruikenstad from Sunday 15 February to Tuesday 17 February.
The main parade takes place on Sunday at around 12:30 and is one of the largest in the country, featuring impressive floats and large crowds.
Breda (Kielegat)
In Breda, known as Kielegat during Carnival, celebrations also run from Sunday 15 February to Tuesday 17 February.
The main parade takes place on Monday 16 February at around 12:00 in the city centre. Breda combines traditional elements with a lively party atmosphere.
Venlo
Carnival in Venlo does not have a single official alternative name like some other Limburg cities. Instead, the city is known for its Vastelaovend celebrations and large events such as the Boètegewoeëne Boètezitting. From the 11th of the 11th celebrations to the Boerebroelof, Venlo Carnival offers a wide range of events across the city centre, giving visitors a lively and authentic experience.
Nijmegen (Knotsenburg)
Nijmegen celebrates Carnival as Knotsenburg. Events begin on Friday 14 February with the ceremonial key handover and a children’s afternoon.
On Saturday 15 February, the programme includes Carnival Mass at Petrus Canisius Church and the city parade. Sunday 16 February is traditionally dedicated to visiting cafés, with celebrations concluding on Monday 17 February.
The South African Expat 
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