Carnavalsdagen

One of the great things about living in Europe is partaking in the many festivals that are region-specific. While living in Wiesbaden, we did Fasching, in the Limburg region of the Netherlands, the equivalent is Carnaval. It is very similar to Mardi Gras festivities in the States, except everyone dresses up in elaborate costumes of color or characters.

There are usually lots of parades and events that take place all across the various cities, and Sittard is no different. Beginning on the Thursday before Ash Wednesday, all of Sittard is focused on the most important event of the year, Carnaval. Young, old and in between participate in the many activities and parties and of course we couldn't help but get swept away with the Carnavalsdagen as well.

On Friday night, we were spectators at a small German village's parade and on Saturday we kicked it up a notch and brought back an old Fasching favorite, Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf, at a party in Maastricht.

On Sunday, we descended upon the Sittard parade with our party posse and enjoyed watching the many floats. Later, we made our way to the market square where the parade ended and the real partying began.

After one night and one day of this, I was about done, but for the Limburgers, this is the highlight of their year. For five days straight they wear costumes, march in parades, attend parties, and play Carnaval music non-stop.

It is truly an incredible event and for anyone that wants a taste of authentic European culture, enjoys dressing up, and wants to take advantage of more economical airfare - this is the time to come!