Stage for Stories: Together you are never alone

With carnival, Breda transforms into Kielegat. The spectacle attracts visitors from all over. Then the streets turn red-orange, the people receive the key to the city, we choose our prince(ss), decide who we want to be, and celebrate together. 

But carnival is more. Around the world, there are similar traditions centered around community spirit, gender, and who you are or want to be, as social rules are turned upside down for once. In the project De Parade, photographer Vincen Beeckman, together with residents and organizations from Breda, explores these rich traditions. From healthcare institutions to neighborhood workshops, participants enrich the project with their ideas, artworks, and stories.

Saome bende nooit alleen and that proves De Parade. Together, we work towards a colorful carnival. We do this not only at the Explore Breda Store but also at more locations in Breda.

Activities in Next:

You can also get started in Next! Discover, design, imagine, and photograph, and become part of De Parade. 

• Become who you want to be
  Photographer Vincen Beeckman is still looking for models! Have a photo taken of yourself on 5, 6, 12 or 13 February, or step into the photo studio yourself and take a selfie. 
• Create a carnival emblem
  The design competition is back! Imagine: everyone in Kielegat wears your emblem. How amazing is that! You can do this at home or in Next. The new winning emblem will be available from 11 November 2026. Join now!
• Carnival in images
  Help us expand the carnival archive by sharing your carnival photos with the Breda City Archives. Do you have photos that add to our story? We are looking for images from the 1930s to the 1960s, with specific traditions, recognizable symbolism, or a personal story. Do you have carnival photos from this period? Let us know and send an email to pr.stadsarchief@breda.nl!