Bridge between winter and spring
Krokusvakantie is celebrated between winter and spring when there is normally still a bit of snow in the East and cold weather throughout the country. This school vacation serves exactly as a bridge between winter and the blooming of spring, starting with the crocus flowers. Hence the name - Krokusvakantie (literally translated to Crocus vacation).
Since the seventies, this holiday has taken place every year in Belgium (and the Netherlands). Introduced as a break from the gloomy winter months, and on the request of parents, this holiday generally entails winter sports and celebrating carnival. The timing of this school holiday depends on Easter. More precisely, it begins every year on the seventh Wednesday before Easter, also known as Ash Wednesday.
This school holiday however, is not to be confused with the Easter holiday, as this break is a full two weeks of holiday during Easter.
Practicality meets tradition
In the ‘70s the holiday lasted only two days and was related to Ash Monday, a religious holiday from the Catholic tradition that marks the beginning of the Easter fast. Older Leuvenaars remember going to church on Ash Wednesday where they would receive the so-called askruisjes (or ash cross in English) at the Mass, which marks the official beginning of Lent. The priest places a cross with ashes on the believer's forehead, as a sign that they are entering a time of reflection, conversion and penance.
Today, among the majority of the population, Carnaval remains connected to tradition even though its religious context is mostly being replaced. The practicality of the school-related vacation, explains why some parents take this extra week as an opportunity to travel.
Carnaval
Many cities celebrate carnival which usually starts on Sunday, three days before Ash Wednesday. Most Cities or villages have their own carnival parade that has unique heritage and folklore. From parody to surrealism, traditional carnival songs, music, costumes, dances are here to remind us of the cyclical nature of life; that after darkness comes light and after cold winter we can expect the fertility of spring.
To experience the most of this Carnaval tradition we recommend visiting two of the most well known in Belgium - the Carnaval of Aalst Aalst carnaval: officiële website - alle nieuws - praktische info - programma and Carnival in Binche (Wallonia) Carnaval de Binche 2025, Belgium - Travel Begins at 40 . The first takes place this year on Sunday, 2nd of March and the latter begins on the same day, yet it lasts for three days. Aalst carnaval is more for adults (more drinking). The medieval Carnaval de Binche is unlike any other in the world. Its costumes, rituals, and traditions have evolved since the 14th century. In recognition of its unique cultural significance, UNESCO has named the Carnaval de Binche a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
Of course Carnaval is also celebrated in Leuven. You can experience many child friendly activities in Leuven from 14 - 15 March. Here is the link: Carnaval | Stad Leuven
Activities & public events
Activities around Spring break today look significantly different. One might ask, where do Belgian families go during Spring break? Austria is a very popular vacation destination for winter sports. For those who prefer soaking up the sunshine during winter, Egypt or Canary Island are common stops.
For those staying at home, many museums around Belgium organize fun activities known as Krokuskriebels. These activities are aimed to stimulate children's imagination and involve introducing families to museum’s offerings such as immersive experiences, making crafts, stargazing, etc .
This year Museum M in Leuven takes you on a scavenger hunt. With a sticker sheet and pencil in hand, you can complete various tasks, explore, observe, draw, and let your imagination run wild. Reserve your tickets here: Familieparcours 'Collectie van M' | M Leuven
Practical information for 2025
The duration of Spring break today also differs between regions. This year, in 2025, spring break lands on: Krokusvakantie 2025 met kinderen: 9 tips | UiTinVlaanderen
- March 1st until the 9th in Flanders
- but in Wallonia and Brussels it takes place for 2 weeks from February 24th until March 9th
Here are some important dates:
- Carnaval in Leuven (14 - 15 March)
- Carnaval in Aalst (2 - 4 March)
- Carnaval de Binche (2 – 4 March)
- Krokus Festival in Hasselt (26 February-6 March)
References