For Bergen op Zoom, November 11th is more than just the start of the carnival season. On Wednesday, November 11th, the Krabbens gather at the Geit van Mie d’n Os on the Bleekveldje for the Ellefde van d’n Ellefde. At 23:11, the Fast Evening bonfire is officially lit there.

The promise to the Goat

The Ellefde van d’n Ellefde is an important moment within the Bergse Vastenavend tradition. At the Goat, a joint promise is made to make another special Vastenavend.

Prior to the moment at the Bleekveldje, the Great Council Meeting of the Vastenavend Foundation takes place. There, the Grand Farmer and Prince are elected, after which Steketee and the Nar are also appointed. Subsequently, the Farmers march towards the Bleekveldje with torches and music.

The Goat of Mie d’n Os forms the centerpiece of this event. The Gròòtste Boer lights the “Kale n’Eed” on behalf of the crabs present. Then it is up to the Prince to symbolically light the Fast Evening Fire.

On the way to Lent

After November 11, the Lent Eve does not immediately begin. According to Bergian tradition, the fire remains symbolically smoldering during Sinterklaas, Christmas, and the New Year’s Eve, before later bursting into full force towards the actual Lent Eve.

Anyone who wants to experience this typical Bergse tradition can come to the Bleekveldje on Wednesday evening, November 11.

Date Wednesday 11 November 2026
Time 23:11 hours
Location: Goat of Mie d’n Os, Bleekveld, Bergen op Zoom