Carnival holiday 2028
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Carnival holiday
The carnival holiday 2028 runs from 12 February to 20 February.
The carnival break provides a week off in February. This period is marked by Luxembourgish carnival traditions, featuring colourful parades and bonfire celebrations.
Carnival is deeply rooted in the country's culture, particularly in towns across the south and north. Children dress up in costumes at school in the days before the break, and many villages organise family-friendly costume balls.
It is also the season for Verwurrelter, traditional twisted doughnuts that are prepared as a carnival treat.
Activities during the carnival holiday
The Kavalkade (carnival parades) in Diekirch and Esch-sur-Alzette are among the largest in the country. Buergbrennen, a traditional bonfire where a straw figure is burned to chase away winter, takes place on the first Sunday of Lent in many villages.
Ski resorts in the Vosges and Eifel are less than two hours away by car. The Kavalkade in Remich along the Moselle is also very popular and draws thousands of spectators.
For families who prefer to stay indoors, cultural centres often run mask-making and costume workshops during the holiday week. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore winter trails in the Ardennes, where snow sometimes still makes an appearance in February.
Practical info about the carnival holiday
Carnival parades often take place on the weekend before the break. Buergbrennen is a free, family-friendly event organised by local municipalities.
Exact parade schedules are announced by the municipal administrations, usually a few weeks in advance. It is worth arriving early to secure a good spot along the route, as the most popular events attract large crowds.
Maisons relais remain open during the carnival week and frequently offer carnival-themed activities for enrolled children.
Did you know this about the carnival holiday?
Buergbrennen is a tradition unique to Luxembourg and a few neighbouring border areas. This ancient custom symbolises the end of winter.
Straw and wood crosses are burned on hilltops across the country. It is estimated that more than 200 bonfires are lit across the Grand Duchy every year during this celebration.
The origins of Buergbrennen likely trace back to pagan rituals linked to the solstice. Today, municipalities use the occasion for community gatherings with music, warm soup and drinks to keep spectators cosy.