Krabbegat: On November 11th, the Eleventh of the Eleventh, the Carnival bonfires are officially lit. At the Bleekveldje in Krabbegat, all citizens of the city solemnly pledge at the statue of Mie d’n Os that they will again experience a fantastic Carnival. This Eleventh-Eleventh bonfire smoulders, both underground and above, and continues to burn through the periods of Sinterklaas, Christmas, and New Year, ultimately blazing in full glory during the Neuzebal in Krabbegat.

The torches cast a somewhat eerie light on the Bleekveldje, where the shadows of the enthusiastic crowd dance on the facades of the surrounding houses. In the middle of this spectacle, bathed in a sea of yellow light, stands the Goat. The Goat, our symbol for the Bergse Vastenavond. We have gathered here to solemnly pledge to celebrate another fantastic Vastenavond, whether you are a builder, a member of a music group, or simply a resident who doesn't want to miss this celebration. Grootste Boer, on behalf of all of us, ratifies this promise in his “Kale n'Eed”. Shortly afterwards, the Prince steps onto the crate next to the Goat. His whole body radiates the energy for this fantastic celebration. He incites the people, he ignites the Vastenavend passion in all the hearts of our fellow citizens, and he gives the green light by shooting a brightly coloured firework into the cold November sky.

This celebration in Krabbegat is a unique experience that you won't want to miss.

Don't miss the chance to be part of the traditions that make Krabbegat so special!

Would you also like to join in this Bergen tradition? You can! But don't forget to wear the right clothes. In Bergen op Zoom, they wear a net curtain and a red handkerchief. For more explanation about the clothing, please see this video.

Goat Location