Carnival
A celebration of foolishness, mockery and exuberance
Carnival is originally a Catholic festival which precedes the period of Lent (40 days). In Zeeuws-Vlaanderen, people celebrate carnival in various places, including Hulst, Kloosterzande, Vogelwaarde, Lamswaarde, Clinge, Sint Jansteen, Sas van Gent, Philippine, Sluiskil, Westdorpe and Aardenburg. The festival lasts for five days. During Carnival, everyone dresses up in costumes, culminating in the parades that take place in every town and village. For months in advance, the inhabitants have been building and decorating their floats. Zeeuws-Vlaanderen has many carnival clubs. Carnival is the ultimate celebration of foolishness, mockery and exuberance. It mainly takes place in the streets and bars, where the booze flows freely and where carnival music is played. It is a party for both young and old and everyone is welcome!