Red Cross warns of cold weekend as Carnival set to kick off across the Netherlands

The Red Cross is cautioning carnival attendees to prepare for a chilly weekend and to take care of each other. Over the Carnival period, the organization will have more than 820 volunteers on duty at almost 80 events, providing first aid support.

Weeronline forecasts daytime highs of 3 to 4 degrees Celsius this weekend, with temperatures falling below freezing overnight.

The Red Cross warns that sudden, uncontrollable shivering or unusual breathing in a friend could indicate hypothermia. Carnival attendees are advised to dress warmly: “Wear sufficient clothing in layers so you can adjust your warmth. Make sure to eat enough, particularly if consuming alcohol,” the organization said.

Several cities are once again implementing measures to control the crowds during Carnival. In Den Bosch, known as Oeteldonk for the festivities, the municipality notes that attendance rises each year. LED screens and other tools provide visitors with real-time updates, including which areas have more room to enjoy the celebrations.

Tilburg, known as Kruikenstad for Carnival, is anticipating heavy crowds, which could lead to temporary closures in some areas. Breda (Kielegat) and Maastricht (Mestreech during vastelaovend) are implementing similar measures in high-traffic areas to ensure safety.

Although Carnival officially starts on Sunday, festivities will take place all weekend in many towns across Brabant and Limburg, as well as in regions like Twente and parts of Zeeland.

This year, NS is again adding extra and longer trains to carry revelers to Carnival celebrations. Additional cleaning teams are also being deployed to maintain cleanliness on trains and at stations.