Carnival in Limburg: An event you'll never forget

Allow me to take you to Carnival, a lively and fun holiday that is enjoyed all over the world.

But Limburg in the southern Netherlands is where it shines.

The celebrations have their roots in Catholic custom and mark the last time of happiness before the sad time of Lent.

^{I decorate my door, amongst other things, to celebrate carnival.}

Figure out where it all began.

The word "Carnival" comes from the Latin words "carne," meaning "meat," and "vale," meaning "farewell."

It refers to how beef is split up for 40 days of Lent.

You can't eat or drink anything but meat, snacks, sweets, and booze during this time.

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Many people no longer see Carnival as religiously significant, but the spirit of joy has grown stronger, making it a multi-day festival.

Carnival in different parts of the world: a mix of countries

Carnival is enjoyed worldwide, and each place has its unique look.

Brazil is a show with bright outfits, dancing dances, and tough competition between schools.

In Venice, individuals are prized for their elaborate coverings and decorations.

Mardi Gras is celebrated with jazz music, various globes, and street marches.

However, I will not describe the situation in detail; this is something for those celebrating in Brazil, Venice, or elsewhere.

Most of what I know about this comes from TV and the Internet.

But I read and see in the media that it is linked to Lent and the beginning of spring everywhere.

Celebrating a fresh start, a period of exuberance before a time of self-reflection, moderation, and reflection.

Limburg's unique Take on Carnival: A Mix of Tradition and exuberance

Let me tell you the main point of my story. Limburg has a carnival.

You might wonder why there is a Limburg in particular.

Even though the Netherlands is a small country, most of the Carnival celebrations happen in the south, in the provinces of North Brabant and Limburg.

Even here, there are different traditions and ways of understanding this happy event.

But the main point is still the same.

^{Having fun together.}

Each village or town may have its rituals and customs.

I'll only talk about how it's honored in my village.

The celebrations start on November 11 (11/11), which is thought to be a lucky day since "11" is the "fool's number."

Prinsebal: unveiling the harbingers of joy

The first significant event is the Prinsebal, held on the first Saturday after 11/11.

^{The lucky three}

The Prince, Youth Prince, and Youth Princess of Carnival are ceremonially unveiled here.

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They take on the symbolic role of leading the festivities and take control of the residence from the mayor until Ash Wednesday.

They must also ensure that all residents join in the celebrations and that it is conducted orderly.

The Council of Eleven & Adjutants: Guardians of the Carnival Spirit

The Prince and Princess are accompanied by the Council of Eleven, which forms the core of the carnival association.

They are the ambassadors of the association, organize & attend festivities, and ensure smooth organization.

Their distinctive headgear distinguishes them, calles the "steek" (roughly translated to "stitch".

In addition to this council of 11, they also have adjutant.

Think of them as personal helpers.


Where the princes and princesses are, there are also the adjutants. Yes, even to the toilet.

And ensuring that in the early hours, the highnesses get home safely after a day of fun, music, and drink (for the adults among us).


A rainbow of imagination in costumes and masks

Masks and costumes are essential to Carnival because they represent breaking social rules.

They give you freedom, privacy, and a break from everyday life.

The complete, handmade Prince Carnival costume usually costs between €2500 and €3500.

But this is also an exceptional outfit that no one else wears.

It consists of shorts with white leggings, a top with a cape, and on the head a "steek" (this is what this special headgear is called) with three feathers from a king's pheasant, black boots, and white gloves.

In addition, they receive a unique necklace and a wand that symbolize the power they represent in the carnival period.

Of course, the princess's pants are replaced for a skirt and the "steek" for a crown.

Dress up

Why does everyone dress up and wear makeup at Carnival?

Because Carnival is the festival of inversion, roles are reversed, and social norms no longer apply.

Everyone puts work and responsibilities aside for a moment to party without any limitations for a few days.

Some refer to it as acting like a drunken fool.

But that doesn't sound very kind to me.

Alcohol, for me, has nothing to do with Carnival.

But that is my opinion.

I don't need alcohol to enjoy myself and experience this festival.

But to each his own.

The costume outfit is an important symbolic part of this.

In a costume outfit, you can be whatever you want and forget about your job for some time.


For a while, it doesn't matter what you look like because when everyone looks crazy, no one seems crazy.


And you can also hide well behind a mask or layer of makeup makeup.


Dressing up/masking thus offers freedom, equality, and anonymity at the same time.

Above all, Carnival is, therefore, also an escape from everyday life.

During the entire carnival period, I wear the same outfit because I am a member of the carnival association in my hometown.

We wear the same outfit as all the ladies of this association.

To still provide a bit of individuality, I always paint my whole face in the most colorful and exuberant ways.
Even makeup courses are given; some elevate this to real art.

Unleash the inner reveler: Music, dance, and merriment.

You can relax and have fun at Carnival.

The streets are filled with music, dancing, and fun.

Pubs and party halls overflow with revelers, creating an atmosphere of boundless energy and camaraderie.

Now that you have a little idea about Carnival's concept, history, and ideas, I'd like to show you some photos and videos I took in my village this Carnival.

This way, I will give you a taste of the atmosphere and fun.

The Parade

Closing the chapter: Ash Wednesday and beyond

Carnival ends on Ash Wednesday, with a ceremony that starkly contrasts the exuberant festivities of the days before.

The Prince and Princess return power to the mayor, symbolizing the end of their rule.

Although the festivities end, the memories and bonds formed during Carnival live on.

The anticipation for the next year is already beginning to bubble up.

Holy Mass

The ceremony is followed by a Holy Mass, during which the faithful receive an ash cross on their foreheads.

This marks the beginning of Lent, a period of reflection, repentance, and penance.

The priest, while placing the cross of ask, speaks the words, "Remember, man, dust thou art, and to dust thou shalt return" (in Latin, "Memento, homo, quia pulvis es, et in pulverem reverteris").

"Herring biting"

The tradition of eating herring on Ash Wednesday emphasizes abstaining from meat during Lent.

It is a moment of togetherness, reflection, and one last communal activity before Carnival is finally over.

I, too, enjoyed this delicious delicacy, tasting the symbolism of the tradition.

It was a moment of closure and new beginnings, and I am already looking forward to the next Carnival.

But also of Lent.

For me, this also brings a time of rest and simplicity.

And I can also enjoy that immensely.

Carnival in Limburg: A celebration of life, community, and the joy of being

You can see that Carnival is more than just a holiday.

It's a cultural event that brings people together through history, customs, and a sense of community.

Now is a great time to enjoy happiness, creativity, and being yourself.

For those who experience it, Carnival in Limburg leaves an indelible impression, a memory for life, and, for me, a cherished part of my cultural identity.

Finally

My blog has given you a small taste of the magic of Carnival in Limburg.


If you ever get to experience this celebration for yourself, don't hesitate.


It is a journey you will remember.


Thanks for reading my blog.

See you at the next Carnival!❤️💛💚

Leave a note with what you think.

If you have a question or want to learn more about Carnival?

Please feel free to ask.

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📷 Photos: Owned and shot by me with a Iphone 14, some edited with
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