Carnival of Binche

The Carnival of Binche is a joyful festival that takes place in Binche, Hainaut, Belgium. It happens each year on the Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday just before Ash Wednesday. This special event has a long history, starting around the 14th century, making it a tradition that has been enjoyed for hundreds of years.

One of the most exciting parts of the Carnival of Binche is the performers called Gilles. They dress up in beautiful costumes that use the national colours of red, black, and yellow. During the parade, these performers throw oranges for the crowd to catch, adding to the fun and excitement.

Because of its rich history and unique traditions, the Carnival of Binche was named a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2003. It is also protected as important intangible heritage of the French Community of Belgium, showing just how special this celebration is to the people of the area.

History

The Carnival of Binche has a long history, with the first written records dating back to 1394. These celebrations happened at the start of Lent, the 40 days between Ash Wednesday and Easter.

During the Napoleonic regime, wearing masks was not allowed. However, in 1795, the Gilles, who are now important parts of the carnival, were first written about as masked characters who were rebelling. In 2003, the Carnival of Binche was named a Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, and in 2004, it became recognized as intangible heritage of the French Community of Belgium.

Celebrations

The Carnival of Binche is a joyful celebration that starts up to seven weeks before the main events. People enjoy street performances, music, dancing, and marching parades on the Sundays leading up to Ash Wednesday. Many people in Binche wear costumes on the Sunday just before Ash Wednesday.

Gilles

Main article: Gilles

The most exciting part of the carnival is the performers called Gilles. These performers wear bright costumes and masks, and they appear mostly on Shrove Tuesday, also known as Mardi Gras. Gilles dance early in the morning to drum music and help chase away bad spirits. Later, they wear big hats with feathers and walk through the town carrying baskets of oranges. They throw these oranges to the crowd, and people catch them as a sign of good luck. The oranges are special gifts from the Gilles, and it is considered rude to throw them back.