Carnival 2026: Where to Celebrate in the Brainport Region
Carnival 2026 will take place from Friday 13 February to Tuesday 17 February, with the main celebrations occurring over the weekend. In the Netherlands, the festivities are most prominent in the southern provinces, including Noord-Brabant, home to the Brainport region.
Eindhoven (Lampegat)
Eindhoven is the central Carnival destination within the Brainport region. During Carnival, the city is traditionally renamed Lampegat. Celebrations take place throughout the city centre, with street parties, music events, and themed cafés and bars, particularly around Stratumseind, Markt, and Wilhelminaplein.
One of the highlights is the Carnival parade, which is expected to take place on Saturday 14 February 2026. The parade features decorated floats, local associations, and live music, drawing large crowds each year. Festivities continue throughout the weekend and into Carnival Tuesday.
Surrounding Towns
Several towns around Eindhoven also organise local Carnival events, including Helmond, Veldhoven, Best, and Valkenswaard. These celebrations are more community-focused but include parades, children’s events, and local parties. So, if you’re looking for ‘gezellig’ parties, then these are good choices. Many parades in these towns traditionally take place on Sunday, 15 February.
Commute and scheduling
Public transport in the region usually operates on an adjusted schedule during Carnival, with additional services in busy areas. City centres can be crowded, particularly in Eindhoven, and visitors are advised to plan ahead.
More detailed programmes, including exact parade routes and event schedules, are typically published by local municipalities and Carnival associations closer to the event.
