Aalst Carnival
When is the 2027 Aalst Carnival?
The Aalst Carnival will occur from February 7, 2027 to February 9, 2027.
Where is the Aalst Carnival celebrated?
The Aalst Carnival is celebrated in the Belgian city of Aalst.
What is Aalst Carnival?
Aalst Carnival, also known as Carnaval Aalst, is a cultural and folkloric event held in the city of Aalst in East Flanders, Belgium. It is renowned for being one of the most famous and lively carnivals in Belgium and even Europe. It is celebrated annually in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent in the Christian calendar. Aalst Carnival is recognized as one of the most famous and vibrant carnivals in Belgium and is included in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The carnival has a rich history dating back several centuries and is deeply rooted in local traditions.
Aalst Carnival is distinctive for its satirical and irreverent floats, costumes, and performances, often featuring political and social commentary, caricatures, and humor. It’s important to note that the satirical nature of some of the displays in Aalst Carnival has led to controversy at times, with discussions about the boundaries of free expression and potential offense. The carnival remains a unique and cherished cultural event, drawing people from within Belgium and beyond to experience its lively and festive atmosphere.
What to Expect at Aalst’s Carnival?
Attending Aalst Carnival for the first time is an unforgettable experience filled with humor, creativity, and vibrant chaos. This event spans three days and features satirical floats, elaborate costumes, and lively music, often poking fun at politics, culture, and current events. Expect a mix of parades, street performances, and a free-spirited atmosphere where locals and visitors embrace the unconventional. Highlights include the “Voil Jeannetten” parade, where men dress in over-the-top outfits for comedic effect, and the nightly revelry in the streets. It’s a celebration that blends tradition with irreverence, so come ready to laugh, dance, and marvel at the wit and artistry of the participants.
Key features of Aalst Carnival include:
Satirical and Humorous Displays
Aalst Carnival is known for its satirical and often irreverent depictions of current events, politics, and societal issues. Participants create elaborate floats, costumes, and displays that often poke fun at local and international figures.
Parades
Aalst Carnival features lively parades with floats, marching bands, and participants in elaborate costumes. The parades wind through the streets of Aalst, attracting both locals and visitors.
Gilles of Aalst
The "Gilles" are central figures; they are costumed characters wearing vibrant suits with feathered hats, wax masks, and wooden footwear. The Gilles perform traditional dances and participate in various events throughout the carnival.
Throwing of Oranges
One distinctive feature of the Aalst Carnival is the throwing of oranges by participants on the floats to the crowd. While in some places, throws may include candies or trinkets, Aalst has a tradition of using oranges as throw items.
Music and Dancing
Music is a significant part of the carnival, with marching bands and other musical groups adding to the festive atmosphere. Dancing is also a common activity, especially during street parties and gatherings.
Community Participation
Aalst Carnival is a community-driven event, with many residents actively involved in its organization and participation. Local clubs, societies, and individuals contribute to the creativity and energy of the carnival.
2026 Aalst Carnival Schedule
Sunday Parade (Zondagsstoet)
Date: Feb 15, 2026
Location: Statieplein through city centre to Grote Markt, Aalst
Time: 13:00
The Sunday Parade opens the carnival celebrations with vibrant floats, costumes, and lively satire. Local groups showcase creative and humorous displays that set the tone for the three-day event.
Monday Parade (Maandagsstoet)
Date: Feb 16, 2026
Location: Statieplein through city centre to Grote Markt, Aalst
Time: 13:30
The second major procession brings a slightly different vibe than Sunday, with carnival groups in a relaxed order. It’s a traditional parade where prizes for carnival displays are announced later in the evening.
Broom Dance
Date: Feb 16, 2026
Location: Grote Markt, Aalst
Time: 14:00
Performed by the Gilles on Monday, this folkloric ritual on the eve of spring involves waving brooms to banish evil spirits, ensuring a good harvest and prosperous year.
Ajuinworp (Onion Toss)
Date: Feb 16, 2026
Location: Grote Markt, Aalst
Time: 14:30
A uniquely Aalst tradition, the Ajuinworp sees carnival princes throw onions into the crowd from the town hall balcony. The onion symbolizes Aalst’s history and pride, and catching one is believed to bring good luck for the year ahead.
Prize Giving Ceremony (Prijsuitreiking)
Date: Feb 16, 2026
Location: Grote Markt, Aalst
Time: 22:00
The official prize ceremony takes place on Monday night, where awards are presented to the best carnival groups, floats, and costumes from the Sunday and Monday parades. It’s a celebratory moment that keeps the party going late into the night.
Voil Jeanettenstoet
Date: Feb 17, 2026
Location: Grote Markt / City Centre, Aalst
Time: 15:00
On Tuesday, thousands of men dress as women, known as 'Voil Jeanetten' (Dirty Janets), taking to the streets in a display of role reversal and satire, mocking societal norms and themselves.
Burning Ceremony (Popverbranding)
Date: Feb 17, 2026
Location: Grote Markt, Aalst
Time: 21:00
As Carnival draws to a close, a traditional puppet (often representing Carnival itself) is ceremonially burned on the Grote Markt, marking the end of the festivities before Lent.
Note: carnival organizers can switch-up routes, times, etc. at the last minute so tap the “ViewAllEvents” button to check for updates.
How to Get to Aalst for Carnival?
Aalst is easy to reach whether you’re coming from elsewhere in Belgium, across Europe, or internationally.
- Fly into Brussels Airport (BRU), located about 40 minutes from the city center, with flights from major global hubs including London, Paris, Amsterdam, Madrid, Rome, and New York.
- Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL), is about 1 hour away, and serves European cities like London, Dublin, Barcelona, Rome, Budapest, and Kraków.
- Direct trains run from Brussels, Ghent, and Bruges into Aalst Station. The journey from Brussels takes approximately 30 minutes.
- Long-distance buses typically arrive in Brussels while Regional buses operate between surrounding Belgian cities and Aalst.
To score the best Carnival fares, compare prices across top travel sites like:
KAYAK – Perfect for comparing flight prices at a glance.
Expedia – Ideal if you want to bundle your flight + hotel and save.
Trip.com – Great for flexible travel dates and multilingual support.
Omio – Compare and book trains, buses and flights in Europe with one search.
Where Should You Stay During Aalst Carnival?
The main Carnival festivities take place in Aalst city center, so staying nearby allows you to walk to parades and events.
Use the above map to find and book stays near the Carnival parade route!
How to Get Around Aalst During Carnival?
Getting around Aalst during Carnival is easy thanks to its small size and good transport links:
- Walking: The best way to enjoy the festivities in busy areas, especially around the main square, parade routes, and central event zones.
- Bicycles: Cycling is common in Belgium, and bikes can be a convenient way to move around the city during Carnival.
- Local Buses: City and regional buses connect residential neighborhoods and nearby towns, operating regularly throughout Carnival.
- Taxis and Rideshares: Available across Aalst and useful for late-night travel after Carnival celebrations.
- Rental Cars: Not needed in Aalst but handy for trips to Ghent, Brussels, Antwerp, or the historic canals of Bruges.
What Else Can You Do in Belgium During Aalst Carnival?
Wander through Aalst’s Old Town to see its Gothic architecture, stop by the lively Grote Markt for a local brew, or visit St. Martin’s Church to admire its stunning design. Art and history fans can check out ’t Gasthuys City Museum for a deep dive into Aalst’s culture. When it’s time to unwind, grab some Belgian fries and people-watch from a cozy café terrace.
Here’s how to keep the festive spirit flowing in Belgium:
Looking for More Aalst Carnival Travel Advice?
Planning your Carnival trip goes beyond just booking flights and accommodation. These blogs provide tips for attending Aalst or any other Carnival worldwide:
Handy Travel Resources for Your Carnival Trip
Expedia
Book flights, hotels, and car rentals in one place and score package discounts for your carnival getaway.
Hostelworld
Find fun, affordable hostels close to carnival routes and meet other travelers.
Rail Europe
Easily book trains across Europe — perfect if you’re visiting multiple carnival cities.
Tripadvisor
Read real reviews, compare experiences, and book unforgettable adventures to enhance your Carnival getaway.
Airalo
Stay connected with Airalo eSIMs — affordable, no SIM swaps or roaming stress!
VisitorsCoverage
Get reliable travel insurance for medical issues, trip delays, or lost bags.
NordVPN
Stay secure on public Wi-Fi while traveling.
AirHelp
Claim compensation if your carnival flights get delayed or canceled.
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