I think one of the many cultural shocks an international student has when first coming to The Netherlands is the Carnival. We don’t understand why there are so many people of literally all ages dressed up in the most creative and colorful ways, drinking and celebrating on the streets. Well, as an extroverted person who doesn’t walk, but runs to an event where there is dressing up and dancing involved, I was extremely interested in participating and finding out what this big party is all about. Let me take you through my first experience of the Carnival. 

History of the Carnival 

For a bit of backstory, the Dutch Carnival is a Christian celebration, marking the start of the fasting, that leads up to Easter. In the Netherlands, this tradition is celebrated more in the southern provinces of Limburg and Brabant, but some cities in the North also participate. Personally, I would’ve expected a crazier reason for why the whole Noord-Brabant goes full-on party animal mode, but the Easter Bunny’s visit approaching makes a pretty good reason too… I guess. 

My Experience with the Carnival 

Now that you’ve had your small History lesson, let’s dive into the actual story. I was in my first year of university, in February 2023, when I saw and participated in my first Dutch Carnival. Of course, at first, coming from a more conservative culture where acting almost feral and drinking in the streets wearing crazy costumes seemed a bit… weird. But, I was missing out on a lot of fun! I called one of my closest and oldest friends from my home-country, who also came to study in The Netherlands, and we decided to embark on this crazy Carnival ride. First things first, I dressed up in my flashiest clothes and accessories; not that it would be hard for me to find something like this in my closet. Afterwards, we went out to have some drinks, dance, and sing (mostly to traditional or techno Dutch songs, but that works too). I truly had lots of fun with my friend and new international friends I made during that night in Tilburg. 

Bringing my Mom to the Carnival 

But, that was not all. My mom came to visit during the time of Carnival, since I was on vacation, and I decided to take her too (fellow extrovert up for dressing up) to the Dutch Carnival, in Breda. I gave her another wig I had, made cliché “military” black lines on her cheeks (her choice of costume), and went to the city center to party and get stuffed with some cotton candy. In the meantime, while taking pictures, a group of friendly Dutchies joined us and partied along with us that day. I think this was one of my favorite aspects of this celebration (besides putting on sparkly make-up) – the sense of community. No matter whether you came there with friends, with your mom, or even alone, people would join you and make you feel included, even if you were not Dutch. It was truly a pleasant surprise and made me feel more integrated into this new country that I was living in. 

Well, to close off, my whole experience of Carnival was unexpectedly interesting and fun, even if I was reluctant at first, (yes, extroverts are scared of social and crowded situations too sometimes), but I would totally do it again. And I for sure will. Are you curious to see that? Well, stay tuned on our Instagram @neverwouldieverrr to find out. 😉  In the meantime, check out how different personalities react when Carnival is approaching: https://www.instagram.com/p/DCOth53CmY3/?igsh=MTFmeHNqZ3puMmtpaw==