Dimanche gras (Sunday opening parade)
Arrive early along parade routes for good viewing; excitement builds with each society's arrival.
~16:00 - 18:00
Carnival of Binche (Gilles & Orange Throwing)
Carnaval de Binche
Binche, Belgium
Feb 7 - 9, 2027Expected
Each year, the Belgian town of Binche holds a carnival so old and treasured it is honored by UNESCO. On the big day, the Gilles, costumed in bright wool and padded with straw, dance through the streets and toss oranges to the crowd for good luck, in one of Europe's most singular folk traditions.
Key moments
Day 1 · Feb 7
Day 2 · Feb 8
Lundi gras – Children’s procession and fireworks
Family-friendly area near station; arrive early to find a spot for the fireworks.
~19:00 - 19:30
Day 3 · Feb 9
Mardi Gras – Gilles Parade and Orange Throwing
Be in position by 8:30 for prime viewing; stand behind barriers and wear gloves (oranges can be heavy).
~9:00 - 12:00
Where it happens
Grand-Place de Binche
Binche, Belgium
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Plan the timing
Visitors may observe but not join the official Gilles procession or private rituals.
Respect local boundaries
Visitors should respect the local customs (do not touch Gilles or their costume, avoid inte...
Ask before close-up photos
Ask permission
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Extremely crowded in main square and parade routes; less dense in side streets.
Weather
Cold February weather (rain or snow possible). Bring warm rain gear.
Transport
Regular trains to Binche; local TEC buses serve the town.
Tickets
Free events are available.
Safety & access
Generally very safe and family-friendly; local police present.
Reviewed mediaMAJOR COMMUNITY & FOLK LIFE
Carnival of Binche (Gilles & Orange Throwing)
Carnaval de Binche
Binche, Belgium
Each year, the Belgian town of Binche holds a carnival so old and treasured it is honored by UNESCO. On the big day, the Gilles, costumed in bright wool and padded with straw, dance through the streets and toss oranges to the crowd for good luck, in one of Europe's most singular folk traditions.
AnchorCultural anchor
Feb 7 - 9, 2027Expected dates
Verified this year
Saved locally on this device. A free account keeps your shortlist across devices.
The story behind it
This carnival is a major expression of Walloon folklore. Locals prepare elaborate wool costumes and straw padding weeks in advance; entire families are involved in the tradition. UNESCO notes Binche’s citizens take great pride in preserving the craftsmanship and dances associated with this event.
Key moments to know
Day 1Feb 7~16:00 - 18:00Expected
Dimanche gras (Sunday opening parade)
Arrive early along parade routes for good viewing; excitement builds with each society's arrival.
Day 2Feb 8~19:00 - 19:30Expected
Lundi gras – Children’s procession and fireworks
Family-friendly area near station; arrive early to find a spot for the fireworks.
Day 3Feb 9~9:00 - 12:00Expected
Mardi Gras – Gilles Parade and Orange Throwing
Be in position by 8:30 for prime viewing; stand behind barriers and wear gloves (oranges can be heavy).
Day 5Feb 11~22:00Expected
Mardi Gras night – Closing ceremony
Enjoy one last festive moment with locals; heaviest crowds celebrate through midnight.
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Plan the timing
Visitors may observe but not join the official Gilles procession or private rituals.
Respect local boundaries
Visitors should respect the local customs (do not touch Gilles or their costume, avoid interfering in rituals).
Ask before close-up photos
Ask permission
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Feb 7 - 9, 2027
Estimated
City / Area
Binche
Hainaut
Access
Brussels South Charleroi (CRL) · 25 km from festival
Cost
Free entry
Budget ~€60, Moderate ~€120, Comfort ~€200 per day
Atmosphere
High-energy with nonstop drumming, dancing and cheering throughout...
Extremely crowded in main square and parade routes; less...
Good for
Families, culture enthusiasts
Very High visitor welcome
If you go, go with confidence.
Save this celebration to keep the date correct, get planning guidance, follow key moment updates, and build your trip around what matters.
Plan with confidence
Get your Attendance Blueprint
Travel solo with ease
Find tips and support that make it simple
Stay date-correct
We'll watch the date so you don't have to