Binche - Carnival

Once a year Binche reclaims its place in the national limelight with the holding of its carnival, probably the most famous event of its kind in Belgium. Hundreds of "Gilles" (carnival jesters) in brightly colored costumes dance in the streets. This custom may in part have originated with the great fête organized by Mary of Hungary in 1549 for Charles V in celebration of Pizarro's conquest of Peru, when many of those attending were dressed as Incas. The carnival itself is older however, being mentioned in documents from as early as the 14th C., while the figure of the "Gille" goes back only to the 18th C.

On each Sunday approaching Lent, the town of Binche is the site of a ceremony, dance, act or some preparation for the carnival. Fat Sunday is the day that the performers don their costumes, Fat Monday has dancing in the streets and fireworks; while Fat Tuesday is the last day - some say the best day!