Carnaval de Binche 2025 in Belgium

The Carnival of Binche dates back to the 14th century and is listed by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The carnival transforms the Belgian town of Binche from Sunday to Ash Wednesday, but the most important day is Shrove Tuesday.

Gilles

The biggest attraction of the carnival's parades is costumed performers known as Gilles. Clown-like figures are dressed in clogs and suits embroidered with heraldic symbols. They also wear large hats with ostrich plumes. About 1,000 Gilles in their bright costumes, wax masks, and wooden logs march through the streets from Tuesday morning to the grand finale of the carnival. In the afternoon, they carry baskets of oranges, throwing them into the crowd. The oranges are supposed to bring good luck.

There are a few theories regarding the origin if Gilles' unusual appearance. According to one of them, Queen Mary of Hungary, who ruled the city in the 16th century brought Incas to perform at the carnival, and their flamboyant costumes have become a tradition ever since.

Carnival Schedule

Shrove Sunday

The Carnival de Binche begins on Shrove Sunday with a lively celebration that sets the tone for the days ahead. From 9 am, the streets of Binche come alive with vibrant costumes, accompanied by the sounds of violas and tambours, as performers entertain residents and visitors alike. At 4 pm, the grand Carnival Procession departs from Avenue Wanderpepen and winds its way through Parc Derbaix before concluding at Avenue Charles Deliège by 6 pm. While the day is brimming with excitement, it is worth noting that the Gille, a central figure of the carnival, does not appear in his traditional costume on Sunday.

Shrove Monday

Monday continues the festive spirit with a focus on youth and community. Starting at 10 am, young participants accompanied by violas bring music and joy to the streets. The highlight of the day comes at 4 pm with a Friendship Round Dance ("rondeau") held in the Grand-Place, symbolizing unity and shared celebration. As night falls, the festivities reach a dazzling climax with a spectacular fireworks display at 7 pm in Eugène Derbaix Square, lighting up the sky in honor of the carnival.

Shrove Tuesday

Shrove Tuesday is the grand finale of the Carnival de Binche and the most iconic day of the celebrations. Beginning at 8:30 am, Gilles, Paysans, Marins, Pierrots, and Arlequins parade through the streets, performing traditional dances. A special reception at the town hall follows, where the Gilles and Paysans don their signature wax masks.

At 3 pm, the colorful Parade of the Gilles and other characters commences from Battignies Square. The Gilles, now wearing their elaborate hats adorned with ostrich feathers, throw oranges to the crowd—a symbolic gesture of good luck and prosperity. By 5:30 pm, the Gilles and spectators gather for another round dance in the market square. The day’s celebrations continue into the evening with a dazzling parade of sparklers and a round dance, starting at 8 pm from Avenue Charles Deliège. The carnival concludes with a breathtaking fireworks display at 9:30 pm, marking the end of Binche's cherished tradition in a blaze of light and color.

Binche residents prepare for the Carnival for the whole year, since all events require coordination and rehearsals. It's considered to be a great honor for local men to be dressed as Gilles. There are many carnival societies and non-profits that are involved in the event. Carnival of Binche displays the best in the city, bringing lots of music, dancing, and delicious foods to the streets. It is a unique and joyous event, blending historical customs with community spirit, making it an unforgettable experience for all who attend.