Oetrope Prince Carnival 2026
UNTIL 18 January
The proclamation of the city prince takes place on the Markt.
The "prince of fools" Prince Carnival of Maastricht is chosen every year in secret by a triumvirate, part of the "Kanzelarij raod" (protocol committee) of the carnival association De Tempeleers. During the Prince Invocation, the new prince is proclaimed and unmasked for all to see on the Market Square.
After a parade from Wyck, the demasqué is expected around 15:11h.
On the Saturday before Carnival, the mayor hands the Prince the key to the city. In doing so, the mayor symbolically transfers power to him for three days.
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You can find Oetrope Prins Carnaval 2026 in Binnenstad
Location
Shoppers will enjoy the city centre. This is where the main shopping streets and shopping centres can be found. This part of the city also has the well-known highlights such as the Vrijthof square and the town hall on the Markt square.
Discover the surroundings
Tips in the area