Celebrating Carnival in the Netherlands: Your 2026 Guide

06.02.2026

Where and When to Celebrate Carnival in the Netherlands in 2026

Apart from national celebrations like King’s Day and Sinterklaas, the southern provinces of the Netherlands (Limburg, North Brabant and parts of Drenthe) host something entirely different: Carnival (or Carnaval in Dutch).

Carnival is the Netherlands’ most colourful and lively festival, with parades, music, costumes and street parties. Some cities even temporarily change their names during the celebrations. Many traditions come from local dialects, giving international students and newcomers a unique way to experience Dutch culture and student life.

Customs and traditions

Carnival is all about reversing everyday life. One of the key 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 rule the city.

Music plays a major role. Carnival songs are upbeat, easy to sing along to and often humorous or deliberately absurd. Marching bands, party music and local hits fill the streets and bars from morning until late at night.

There is also one word you will hear everywhere. During Carnival, everyone greets each other with Alaaf.

Costumes at Carnival

During Carnival, everyone dresses up. There are no strict rules. Masks, vintage outfits, exaggerated characters, satire and bright colours are all welcome.

If you are unsure what to wear, remember this rule: more colour is always better than less.

Carnival in the Netherlands 2026

Carnival takes place from Friday 13 February until Tuesday 17 February, with parades and major events spread across the weekend and early week.

Below are some of the best-known places to celebrate.

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.

In 2026, the main parade takes place on Sunday 15 February 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 15 February 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 11/11 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.

Near Apeldoorn: Grand Carnival Parade Klarenbeek

While Apeldoorn itself does not host a large city-wide Carnival celebration, there is an event nearby. For students based in Apeldoorn, Klarenbeek offers an accessible way to experience Carnival.

The Grand Carnival Parade Klarenbeek takes place on Saturday 14 February and is one of the largest parades in Gelderland. The parade starts at 12:00 on Goorweg near Klarenbeek Station and features floats and walking groups.

After the parade, the celebrations continue from 14:00 in “het Krakershol”. Several access roads will be closed and parking is limited, so arriving early or coming by bicycle is recommended.

If you want to join in the fun, make sure to dress up, watch the parades, enjoy the music and embrace the local traditions. Whether you are visiting a major city or a nearby village, the festival is open to everyone and promises fun, colour and laughter.