Our Commercial Director is Prins Carnaval in 2026. Yes, you read that right. And yes, we’re very proud. On the 11th of the 11th, it was officially announced that Prins Paulus d’n Urste is ruling over Kuussegat this season. Which means one thing, it is time to prep you for Carnival. Here are 10 things you should know before diving in. Consider this your survival guide.
1. Carnival = Controlled Chaos (the delightful kind)
In the days leading up to Ash Wednesday, the south of the Netherlands transforms into one giant festival village. People dress up, pubs overflow, the streets turn into parades and everyone forgets what “normal” means. In 2026, Carnival runs from 15 to 17 February, though many cities start celebrating already on the 14th.
2. Traditions with a twist
Carnival started as a moment of wild fun right before the fasting period. Masks, costumes, jokes, mocking authority. Happy chaos with a historical wink.
3. Every city gets a new name
Eindhoven becomes Lampegat, Den Bosch turns into Oeteldonk, Tilburg transforms into Kruikenstad and our beloved Veghel? Kuussegat. Inspired by local livestock. Kuus means calf and gat means butt. Yes, really.
4. Meet the Prince (ours!)
Every Carnival has a Prince, two Adjutants and a Council of Eleven. The Prince “rules” for a few days. He opens festivities and gives speeches. The Adjutants are his right-hand rascals. The Council of Eleven is the symbolic team behind the scenes. Why eleven? It is traditionally the foolish number. This year our very own Prins Paulus d’n Urste is the boss of the Carnival celebrations in Veghel.
5. Costumes required. Normal clothes discouraged
The more creative, bold or hilarious the better. A simple costume works, but a great one opens doors. Literally and socially. Do check local dress codes. In Den Bosch, standard carnival costumes like animal suits or superhero outfits are not the vibe. There you wear a boerenkiel or a jacket, a red white yellow scarf and lots of patches.
6. The music is… different
Expect carnavalskrakers, catchy sing along party songs and brass bands roaming the streets. Do not expect techno or pop unless someone made a carnival remix. Of course, our Prins Paulus has his own anthem. You should listen to it:
7. Enjoy the parade
The parade, or optocht, is one giant moving theatre show. Huge handmade floats, dancing groups, themed costumes, inside jokes and bands marching through town. And naturally a float carrying the Prince, Adjutants and the Council of Eleven. On Sunday, February 15th, the parade will be rolling through Veghel and that’s where you’ll spot Paul! So be sure to come and check it out.
8. Beer comes in plastic cups
For safety and because you carry it everywhere everyone drinks beer from plastic cups.
Wine and mixed drinks exist but beer is king. Expect many cheers, new friends within minutes and conversations that make no sense but feel wonderfully meaningful.
9. It is all about togetherness
Carnival is less a party festival and more a community celebration. Families, friends, colleagues, clubs. Everyone celebrates together. Veghel’s slogan this year says it all. ‘Mi mekaor is ’t vur mekeor.’ Together everything works out. You talk to strangers. You join groups on a whim. No one finds that strange.
10. The days after… good luck
Carnival officially lasts four days but it somehow feels like two weeks. It is amazing and unforgettable. And your body will kindly remind you afterwards that you are not twenty anymore.
With us, everything starts with people. Of course, we match employers in logistics and production with motivated colleagues. Our strength also sits in everything that surrounds that match. Planning, housing, transport, onboarding and growth. We help people start a new chapter. Sometimes that chapter begins at Eindhoven Airport. With our colleague Paulo.
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Starting January 1, 2026, a new collective labor agreement (CLA) for temporary workers will take effect. This CLA is linked to the proposed law 'More security for flexible workers'. What does this mean for you? Better working conditions, more pension savings, and fairer pay. Here is what you need to know.
