A Carnival with a Cause (and a Paint Roller)

The festivities commenced with a touch of local politics. Ships Rik Dehollogne (N-VA), known for his spirited involvement in the carnival, took a unique approach to addressing recent graffiti in the city’s bicycle and pedestrian tunnel. armed with a paint roller, Dehollogne playfully “orphaned” the “Diezie” (a local term, perhaps referring to the graffiti art), responding to complaints that the artists’ “field of activity is disappearing.” This act, performed alongside ‘Clown’ Ships Kevin Schouterden (Vooruit), underscored the carnival’s tradition of blending humor with social commentary.

This kind of playful engagement with local issues is a hallmark of many European carnivals. in the U.S., we might see a similar sentiment expressed through satirical floats in a parade or comedic skits during a town festival. The key is using humor to spark conversation and address community concerns. Consider, for example, the annual Gridiron Club Dinner in Washington, D.C., where journalists and politicians engage in lighthearted roasts of each other, addressing serious issues with a comedic touch. This tradition,like the Hasselt Carnival,uses humor to foster dialog and address community concerns in a unique and engaging way.

A Procession of Atmosphere and Originality

The heart of the carnival was the grand procession, a spectacle of “atmosphere and originality.” Lead by youth princess Finne I and Prince Ronny den Twiede,the parade featured numerous Hasselt groups,each contributing their unique flair. highlights included the ‘Royal Guards’ of the Knepkes, the Fleu Mennekes, the underwater-themed Crazy Gang, the ‘Dee van Kotshoven’ (an especially large group), the city council’s party gangs, and the Flisters fire brigade, celebrating their 50th anniversary.

The procession wasn’t limited to local groups. Participants from neighboring towns added to the spectacle, including the cowboys and Indians of CV Nootwandwerved from Pelt, the bakery of the Teutenraad from lommel, and the miner circles of the Biers.

Hasselt Carnival Unveiled: Unpacking the belgian Festival’s Rich Traditions and social commentary

Did you know that Hasselt Carnival isn’t just a parade, but a reflection of a community’s soul, expressed through humor and artistic flair?

To delve deeper into the meaning of the Hasselt Carnival, *world Today News* spoke with Dr. Annelise Dubois, a cultural anthropologist specializing in European festivals and carnivals.

SENIOR EDITOR (SEN): Welcome, Dr. Dubois. The article describes the Hasselt Carnival 2025 as a blend of festive spirit and pointed humor. Could you elaborate on the meaning of humor in a carnival context,compared to something like Mardi Gras?

DR.DUBOIS: “The use of humor is absolutely crucial in carnivals like the one in Hasselt. It sets it apart. Unlike Mardi Gras, which often centers on festivity and spectacle, Hasselt, and many European carnivals, specifically leverage humor for social commentary. The article mentions the playful jabs at graffiti. This approach allows communities to address local issues, critique societal norms, and spark dialog, all while maintaining that festive atmosphere. This satirical element is a key component in the enduring appeal of the carnival. Think of it as a way to let off steam and offer a different viewpoint.”

Dr. Dubois’s insights highlight a key distinction between carnivals like Hasselt and purely celebratory events. The satirical element provides a platform for community dialogue and social critique,making the event more than just a spectacle.

SEN: The article mentions a specific incident involving a local politician and graffiti.In your expertise, what does this playful engagement with local issues reveal about the carnival’s role in the community?

DR. DUBOIS: “The incident involving the politician and the graffiti underlines the carnival’s pivotal role in the community’s dynamic. It suggests the community feels empowered to discuss local concerns in a highly visible and creative way. This could be anything from a simple nod to the local politics or something more serious. This act of addressing the “Diezie” through performance highlights how carnivals can serve as a platform for the community to address its concerns, reinforce shared values, and foster a sense of belonging. It shows an active investment and care for community wellbeing.“

This active engagement with local issues demonstrates the carnival’s importance as a forum for community expression and problem-solving. It’s a way for residents to voice their opinions and concerns in a public and engaging manner.

SEN: The procession is described as “atmosphere and originality.” Can you delve deeper into the core elements of this specific tradition? Could you also compare it to other similar events?

DR.DUBOIS: “A carnival procession is a showcase of community identity, creativity, and local pride. the “atmosphere and originality” come from the unique themes, elaborate costumes, and carefully crafted floats created by local groups. Every group brings its own flair to the event.Unlike, say, a simple parade, these processions encompass a wide range of elements, from conventional dances and music to satirical floats that comment on current events, as seen in the article.For example, the “Royal Guards” or the “Crazy Gang” are likely groups with strong identities that are rooted in history. It makes watching the carnival a joy.”

The procession, therefore, is not just a parade but a vibrant display of community identity and artistic expression. The diverse groups and their unique contributions create a spectacle that reflects the community’s history, values, and concerns.

SEN: Could you further elaborate on how themes and costumes play a meaningful role in a carnival procession, and the meaning behind them?

DR. DUBOIS: “Themes and costumes are the heart and soul of any carnival procession, offering an immediate insight into the carnival’s spirit. They showcase the community’s creativity, from the historical representation of the “royal Guards,” the Fleu Mennekes, or the “Dee Van kotshoven,” each theme and costume represents a story, a message, or a sentiment relevant to the community.The meaning is often multifaceted, ranging from historical homages and expressions of satire to simple celebrations. The costumes can be symbols of pride, satire, or historical representation.”

The themes and costumes,thus,serve as visual narratives,communicating the community’s history,values,and social commentary in a powerful and engaging way.

SEN: Considering the example of Hasselt Carnival, what long-lasting impact can a festival like this have on its community?

DR. DUBOIS: “A well-executed carnival like Hasselt’s has a lasting impact:

• Cultural Preservation: It keeps local traditions alive, passing them on to new generations.
• Social Cohesion: It unites diverse groups, strengthening community bonds.
• Economic Boost: It brings tourists, boosting local businesses.
• Community Identity: it reinforces local values and fosters civic pride.”

The long-term benefits of the Hasselt Carnival extend beyond a single day of festivities. It contributes to the community’s cultural heritage, social fabric, and economic well-being.

SEN: What are the most meaningful elements that make the Hasselt Carnival so unique, and what can other communities learn from this event?

DR. DUBOIS: “The Hasselt Carnival stands out thanks to its blend of vibrant tradition, pointed humor, and robust community participation. Other communities can learn a grate deal, the biggest lesson is the power of combining party with social commentary. When humor and tradition meet, they can generate a festival that is representative of their society. remember that authentic carnivals are defined by what makes a certain community unique. This is achieved by giving everyone a role.”

Dr. Dubois’s analysis underscores the importance of authenticity and community involvement in creating a successful and meaningful carnival. By embracing its unique identity and providing a platform for diverse voices, the hasselt Carnival serves as a model for other communities seeking to celebrate their own heritage and values.