Maastricht holds the biggest of the Dutch carnivals, a three-day party that's extended to a full week by some seasoned revellers. The show starts for real on Carnival Sunday, when brass bands march through the city streets. Later, stages are set up for live music and DJs. Meanwhile, fancy dress parties take place in neighbourhoods throughout the city, each with music and entertainment laid on. Maastricht's many bars stay open all night through carnival, and the crowds enjoy singing and dancing in the streets, most of them wearing their 'pekskes' (carnival costumes). Everyone comes down to earth on Ash Wednesday, the day after carnival, when a portion of 'heering biete' (herring and bread) is the traditional consolation.

Times
Various.