The Carnaval de Binche (Carnival of Binche) is an annual event that takes place in a dreamy Belgian town called Binche, located south of Brussels. The industrialized town is invaded by tourists from everywhere to participate in the festival that involves a lot of street dancing, musical acts, parades and costumed-men throwing oranges at the crowd. The Belgian festival is for everyone, with unwavering focus on unity within the community and people coming together for some honest to goodness fun.
The Carnaval de Binche dates back to 1395, derived from Pagan rites which were later merged with Christian religious celebrations. Listed by UNESCO as a “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity,” the pre-Lenten carnival is most awaited for the clown-like performers known as the Gilles de Binche.
The Gilles de Binche slow-dance around town wearing vibrant costumes, wax masks, wooden footwear and enormous white ostrich feather headdresses. Be prepared for a bruising as the Gilles are not exactly harmless, despite their cuteness. It is a custom of the Binche Carnaval that the Gilles happily throw oranges at the crowd to bless the forthcoming summer season. Shops around town cover their glass windows ahead of time because things could get really messy, and the windows will not be spared. But no matter how tempting, you must never throw anything back at the Gilles. Instead, turn the other cheek. The fruit that may have hit you smack in the forehead is actually a blessing. That is according to a 700-year-old Belgian tradition.