The 11 11 carnival marks a special day in the carnival world. On the eleventh of the eleventh, or 11 November, the carnival season officially starts. This day is celebrated with lots of music, colourful clothing and festive parades. In the Netherlands it is an indispensable moment for lovers of this pure folk festival. Discover in this blog the history, traditions and events surrounding 11-11 carnival and why it is one of the highlights in the run-up to the real carnival party.

What is the meaning of 11/11 carnival?

The date of 11 November carnival was not chosen at random. The number 11 is seen as the 'crazy number' in carnival culture, which symbolizes cheerfulness and craziness. By choosing the eleventh of the eleventh as the official start date of the carnival season, the playful and rebellious character of carnival is emphasized. During 11 11 carnival, people gather in cities and villages to appoint the new carnival prince and symbolically hand over the key to the city, thus officially opening the festive season.

The Origin of November 11 Carnival Celebration

The celebration of 11/11 carnival has its origins in the Middle Ages, when November was already a month of festivities and traditions. Before Lent, a festive period was often held to celebrate the last abundance of the harvest. Over time, November 11 became the start of the carnival season, a day that is dedicated to the upcoming holidays and the preparations for the big carnival party in February or March.

How is 11-11 Carnival celebrated?

The way 11 11 carnival is celebrated varies from region to region, but there are some common traditions that are found everywhere. Below you can read more about the most important customs during the eleventh of the eleventh.

1. The official opening of the carnival season

   On the eleventh of the eleventh, carnival associations, orchestras and enthusiasts gather on central squares in cities such as Maastricht, Cologne and Düsseldorf. The clock strikes 11:11 and the carnival season is festively heralded with music, dance and speeches. The festivities take place in an exuberant atmosphere with flags, costumes and many carnival songs.
   
   Tip: If you are planning to attend the celebration of 11 November carnival, make sure you arrive early, because it can get quite busy. Many people see this as a great opportunity to get into the festive mood.

2. The election of the carnival prince

   An important part of 11/11 carnival is the election of the carnival prince. This symbolic leader of the party is chosen by the carnival association and will rule over the festivities of that year. With the appointment of the prince, the motto of the year is also announced, which often contains a playful or humorous message.

3. Wearing carnival costumes

   Although carnival itself is not celebrated in November, many people use 11 11 carnival to get their creative costumes out of the closet. Wearing colorful carnival clothing and eye-catching accessories, such as hats and make-up , is also part of the celebration.

Popular locations for the celebration of 11-11 carnival

In many cities in the Netherlands, carnival is a major event on November 11th. Here are some popular locations where you can experience the start of the carnival season at its best.

1. Maastricht: The start of the Dutch carnival season

   Maastricht is one of the most famous cities in the Netherlands where the eleventh of the eleventh is celebrated in style. The city has a rich carnival history and on 11 November the Vrijthof is the place where people come together to celebrate the festivities. With performances by local bands and a festive atmosphere, Maastricht is the ideal place to get into the carnival mood.

2. Cologne: The heart of the German carnival tradition

   Cologne is known for its elaborate and exuberant carnival celebrations, and 11/11 carnival is a particularly important event here. Thousands of people gather in the Altstadt to open the carnival season. The city bursts with party spirit with music, dance and colorful parades. The celebration in Cologne is so big that it is considered by the locals as the "fifth season" of the year.

3. Düsseldorf: Festive start on the Rhine

   Düsseldorf is another German city where the eleventh of the eleventh is an important event. The party traditionally starts on the Marktplatz and spreads throughout the city center. Just like in Cologne, people come from far and wide to experience the opening of the carnival season.

The symbolism of the number 11 during 11-11 Carnival

The number 11 has a special meaning in carnival culture. It is considered a crazy number, which fits perfectly with the carnival celebration that is all about exuberance and fun. By starting the celebration on the eleventh of the eleventh, at 11:11, this symbolism is reinforced. The number 11 also stands for equality and togetherness, because it is above the usual ten, but does not yet reach the elite number twelve. This makes it perfect for a celebration where everyone is equal and where rank or status does not matter.

Why is November 11 Carnival so popular?

11 11 carnival is not just a date; it is the beginning of a period in which people look forward to the upcoming carnival celebration. It marks the moment when the city keys are symbolically handed over and the streets are filled with music and color. This day offers people a chance to escape the daily grind and get a taste of the carnival madness that will be in full swing in a few months.

1. A moment of preparation

   The celebration of 11-11 carnival is also seen as a warm-up for the actual carnival days. It is a time when carnival associations announce their plans and preparations for parades and parties begin. For many, this is the moment to show off their new costume designs or decide which theme they will follow this year.

2. The bond within the community

   During the celebration of 11 November carnival, the community is central. People of all ages and backgrounds come together to herald the beginning of a festive period. This sense of togetherness is characteristic of carnival and is emphasized on the eleventh of the eleventh.

Tips to enjoy the 11 11 carnival festivities

Want to make the most of the celebration of the eleventh of the eleventh? Here are some tips to enjoy this unique day to the fullest:

1. Dress festively

   Although it is not carnival yet, 11-11 carnival is the perfect opportunity to put on a colorful costume. Make it extra special by choosing a theme that matches the traditions of your city or association.

2. Go to the events on time

   The best locations for the celebrations can get crowded quickly. Make sure you arrive early, especially if you are going to popular cities like Maastricht or Cologne, so you don't miss any of the festivities.

3. Immerse yourself in the music

   Music is an essential part of 11 11 carnival. Local carnival bands and brass bands provide a cozy atmosphere. Dance along, sing along, and enjoy the cheerful sounds that fill the streets.

Conclusion: November 11th Carnival, the beginning of the carnival madness

The eleventh of the eleventh is a special day that marks the start of the carnival season. The festive character of 11/11 carnival brings people together to get into the party mood and prepare for the big days that follow in February or March. Whether you join in the festivities in cities such as Maastricht, Cologne, or Düsseldorf, the magic of 11 November carnival can be felt everywhere. Prepare for an unforgettable experience and enjoy this unique day full of fun and tradition.