A man who fell from a parade float during the Aalst Carnival in Belgium is now out of life-threatening danger, according to reports. The incident caused a temporary delay in the festivities, but the carnival continued.
The annual Aalst Carnival, recognized by UNESCO in 2010 as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity before being removed from the list in 2019 due to controversy surrounding antisemitic stereotypes, is a three-day event held in Aalst, East Flanders. The celebration takes place in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday.
Monday’s parade marked the second day of the Aalst Carnival, with Gilles performing a traditional broom dance in the Grote Markt (Main Market Square). The carnival is primarily a street celebration, with participants dancing in town squares and visiting local cafes.
The carnival group Eirg responded to the incident, stating, “You can’t do anything but carry on.”
Aalst Mayor Christoph D’Haese confirmed the fall caused a brief disruption to the parade. Aalst Carnaval is known for its unique blend of humor and satire, transforming the city into a vibrant hub for three days and nights.
This year’s carnival overview, according to Nieuwsblad, featured the theme “Make Aalst Great Again” and a significant presence from Ruben Van Guchts.
Detailed information about the parade route and practical facilities, such as restrooms and first aid stations, can be found on the official Aalst Carnaval website. The incident underscores the inherent risks associated with large-scale public events, even those steeped in tradition.
