Carnival in the Netherlands is mainly celebrated in the south of the country, with cities such as Den Bosch, Eindhoven, Breda, Maastricht and Tilburg known for their exuberant celebrations.
The carnival weekend is just around the corner, and like every year, this festive event brings some important changes in the field of mobility. This year is no exception, and the various municipalities and cities in the Netherlands and Belgium have announced their plans to ensure the safety and comfort of revelers.
In Brabant, transport company Arriva will deploy extra buses and night buses to serve carnival revelers. The extra timetable runs from Friday February 9 to Monday February 12, with an extra night bus service in 's-Hertogenbosch on Tuesday February 13. What is special is that there are extra buses in Tilburg during the day and in the evening, but no night buses.
Travelers can use various payment options such as a debit card, contactless payment with a telephone or the OV chip card. There is also the option to purchase an off-peak day ticket for €7,55, which is also valid as a return ticket. It is important to know that paying in cash on the bus is not possible. Some bus lines have been diverted due to the carnival activities.
by rail (kedeng kedeng)
The Dutch Railways (NS) have taken various measures to accommodate the expected crowds during the carnival weekend. They have announced that extra trains will run between Breda and Rotterdam during the night from Saturday to Sunday. This is part of a broader commitment to serve all stations in Brabant at least twice an hour during carnival. In view of the expected crowds, the NS will be using more and longer trains next weekend. The last trains will be longer than usual, especially on the route between Rotterdam and Breda, where extra trains are specifically deployed.
In the past, the police have often taken extra measures during major events such as carnival, including increased presence and checks to maintain safety and order. It is likely that this will also be the case during Carnival 2024.
For the upcoming carnival weekend in Brabant, there are various measures and circumstances that could have an impact on traffic and public transport. For example, there were recent protests by farmers that led to the closure of border crossings, such as at Hazeldonk on the A16. Check all traffic information carefully and use public transport as much as possible.
During carnival 2024 in Breda, known as it Kielegat, some special measures and events are planned. One of the most important changes this year is that the traditional closing with a fireworks show will not take place. This decision was made for sustainability and safety reasons. However, the usual burning of Kiske and Mieske at the Spanjaardsgat will continue. The Kielegat Foundation, the organizer, is considering offering a creative alternative to the fireworks show in their anniversary year of 2025, when they will have existed for 88 years.
In addition, the Kielegat Foundation is committed to making the Breda Grand Parade accessible to everyone, including seniors and people with a physical disability. A special seating stand and wheelchair platform will be introduced, with an adapted toilet at the City Gallery on the Oude Vest. This initiative is intended to create an optimal carnival experience without obstacles. People who cannot come to the parade independently can use a special pick-up and delivery service through the Kielemaatje initiative.
Tilburg
During carnival 2024 in Tilburg, also known as Kruikenstad various events planned. Various concerts and the traditional 'Proefblaoze' will take place, followed by the large carnival parade 'D'n Opstoet' on Sunday, February 11. On Saturday February 10 there is 'D'n Inhaol' and the 'Haandeschudde'.
The festivities start on Friday February 9 with 'Maawe meude mèèrege', 'Wèèrmdraaje', and the 'Kroegendwèèltocht'. On Monday February 12 there is the 'Kaajbaandefist'. Make sure you check local traffic information and any road closures to ensure your visit to Kruikenstad during Carnival runs smoothly.
During carnival in Den Bosch, known as Oeteldonk, the city will be dressed in the traditional colors of red, white and yellow. It is an event that has been celebrated for more than 550 years and attracts many visitors every year, both from the city itself and from outside. Visitors are encouraged to dress in the colors of Oeteldonk as this is often a requirement to enter most cafes. For more information about the festivities in Den Bosch during Carnival, you can official website van Oeteldonk.
Aon the geng!
There are also some temporary adjustments for cyclists in Maastricht. From February 6 to 14, it is not possible to store bicycles on Onze Lieve Vrouweplein due to the installation of toilet units for the partygoers. The municipality is taking this measure to protect the bicycle sheds against possible destruction and to guarantee safety. Bicycles can be parked on various streets in the city. The municipality will not issue fines for illegally parked bicycles, but does ask cyclists to leave one meter of free space on the sidewalk for better accessibility for everyone.
