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Belgian Carnival 2014
If you thought that Belgium was boring, then think again. They do like to party - especially at Carnival time. The people of Aalst are in to their carnival floats, but aim for them to be as controversial and even offensive as possible. The Binche Carnival is noted for the costumed characters called the Gilles, who drink and dance around town from the early hours right through the night. I followed one of the Gilles from 4:30am, including during the afternoon procession where oranges are hurled into the crowd to bring good luck.