Carnival (‘Carnaval’ in Dutch) takes place this year from 15th -17th February 2026. During this time all of South Limburg will turn red, yellow, and green. Carnival is where everyday law gives way to the whims of a 'humorous' Carnival Committee, whose sole aim is to stop anyone from being serious during Carnival time. Local dignitaries are bizarrely caricatured in papier-mâché figures and lively fun Carnival songs are sung, and across Limburg towns beautiful, colorful parades take place.
Heerlen
Heerlen (Heële) is a super-vibrant carnival town. Like elsewhere in Limburg, Heerlen primarily celebrates street carnival, which takes place in and around the cafes in the city center. People parade through the streets in magnificent costumes, and just like elsewhere in the province, the colors are red, yellow, and green.
Brunssum
Broenssem (Brunssum) is a well-known carnival town in Limburg , where many festivities take place, including the famous King's Carnival Meeting at Brikke Oave. Brunssum has four carnival associations, all affiliated with De Karnavalsroad Broenssum. The colors of the banner are blue, red, and yellow.
Sittard
Sittard's carnival is organized by the Marotte carnival association. The "Zittesje Vastelaovend" program features traditions and fantastic events, and Sittard is also known for its Zittesje Vastelaoves-6-daagse (Six Days of Carnival), celebrating a whopping six days!
The carnival colors in Sittard, like in the rest of Limburg, are red, yellow, and green. People dress in beautiful costumes and wear lovely hats, feather headdresses, and corsages. Just like elsewhere in Limburg, a lot of effort is put into the carnival attire.
Visit the following websites for more information, including parade timings:
Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.