Carnaval celebrations in Eindhoven
'Carnaval' (Carnival) is a Catholic tradition celebrating the week before the fasting of Lent. Carnaval is only celebrated in the Southern areas of the Netherlands (and in some Catholic villages in other parts), the Northern areas being predominately Protestant. Despite its roots being a religious festival, you will be hard pressed to find any religious overtones here.
Every town celebrates Carnaval differently, just like every Dutch town has its own unique personality. Every town has a different name, during Carnaval and Eindhoven is called 'Lampegat', this would translate to something like 'light bulb hole', which refers to the history of the city where the first ever light bulbs were made in the past. The city focuses its attention on music, dancing, and fun. It can get pretty rowdy but if you know what's going on where, Carnaval is fun for every member of the family.
The entire city is decorated with bright colors. The Eindhoven colors are orange and blue. Streamers and confetti cover the streets and music plays from everywhere. Although a costume is not required, it is greatly encouraged. Costume shops are everywhere but the focus is always on silly. If you feel uncomfortable in a costume you can buy a funny hat or a wig. You may think you are going to be uncomfortable dressing up but we promise you will fit in better with something fun and outrageous on. You will fit in perfectly and the locals will go out of their way to make you feel at home.
Saturday starts with a parade. Floats line the streets, bands march in unison, and colorful costumes fill the city. The Parade starts at the central train station at 13:11 (11 is considered the 'crazy number', so everything starts or finishes at :11 during Carnaval) and snakes its way through Vestdijk, Old Stadsgracht, City Hall Square, Wal, Bilderdijklaan to Geldropseweg. Watching the parade is a wonderful way to start the weekend. If you don't know the streets just find a metal barrier, pick a spot with allot of people and join in.
Anything goes for the rest of the weekend. Walk around and you will find the perfect spot to celebrate, Stratumseind is always a young and crazy place, head to Wilhelminaplein for a more mellow crowd, and Market Square is the best of both worlds. The better the weather the more outside options. In and out there is always music and plenty to drink.