John describes one of his many travels, "While traveling throughout Europe I was in Maastricht, The Netherlands, just in time for the Carnivale Festival. There are three festivals that are very similar. In The Netherlands it is called "Carnivale", in South America it's "Carnival", and here in the US we have "Mardi Gras". You can trace the origins of these festivals to the Catholic faith, which begins the season of Lent forty days before Easter Sunday.

 

Carnivale has several purposes. It celebrates the passing of the winter months into the summer and the upcoming harvest. On Sunday morning they raise a Moosfwief or (Housewife) in the Verijtof or (Townsquare.) Most of the town closes down and they choose The Princess of the Ball. Parades begin with floats, and contests are held. Elaborate costumes are worn. Many are hand made by the wearers, who plan throughout the year in secret. 

 

Carnivale is an event that must be seen to be believed. Everyone is welcomed, costume or not. I throughly enjoyed my time at Carnivale and can't wait to return in 2020".