Last updated on November 8, 2025
Yes, but only as part of the official tradition. During the Mardi Gras parade, Gilles throw oranges into the crowd as a symbolic gesture of luck and prosperity. It’s a UNESCO-recognized custom, not random mischief.
A Tradition That Turns Streets Orange
Every year, the small town of Binche in Wallonia transforms into a vibrant stage for one of Europe’s most unique carnivals. The Carnival of Binche, held on the Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, is no ordinary street party—it’s a centuries-old ritual inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Among its most iconic customs? The throwing of oranges.
This isn’t a free-for-all fruit fight. It’s a choreographed act steeped in symbolism. The Gilles—men dressed in elaborate costumes adorned with ostrich-feather hats—parade through the streets carrying baskets of oranges. These oranges are gifts, not weapons, meant to bring good fortune to those who catch them. The tradition dates back to the 19th century and has become the carnival’s signature moment.
Why Oranges? A Symbol of Generosity and Luck
The origin of this custom is as colorful as the carnival itself. According to local lore, oranges were once a luxury item, and tossing them to the crowd symbolized abundance and goodwill. Today, they remain a token of prosperity. Catching one is considered lucky, and throwing it back is frowned upon—it breaks the spirit of the gesture.
The scale of this ritual is staggering. Each Gille throws about 30 kilograms of oranges during the festivities. With roughly 1,000 Gilles participating, that’s nearly 30 tons of citrus soaring through the streets on Shrove Tuesday. The town becomes a sea of color and laughter, with oranges bouncing off cobblestones and landing in eager hands.
Rules Behind the Revelry
While the act of throwing oranges is allowed—and expected—there are boundaries. Only registered Gilles may participate in the orange toss, and they do so during the official parade. Randomly hurling fruit outside this context is not part of the tradition and could lead to trouble. The city enforces strict rules to preserve the carnival’s authenticity, including costume regulations and timing of events.
The Gilles themselves follow a code of conduct. Their costumes, featuring jute blouses stuffed with straw, wooden clogs, and wax masks, are rented from specialized families and may only be worn on Mardi Gras within Binche. This exclusivity underscores the pride and discipline behind the spectacle.
Cultural and Historical Context
The Carnival of Binche traces its roots to the Middle Ages, evolving through centuries of folklore and local pride. Recognized by UNESCO in 2003, it stands as a living testament to Belgium’s cultural heritage. The event mobilizes the entire town, with preparations starting weeks in advance—drum rehearsals, costume fittings, and themed balls set the stage for the grand finale.
On Mardi Gras, the atmosphere reaches its peak. From dawn, Gilles gather for oysters and champagne before stepping into the streets to dance, drum, and distribute their sunny tokens. The day ends with fireworks illuminating the Grand Place, closing a chapter of tradition that has endured for generations.
Practical Tips for Visitors
If you plan to attend, embrace the chaos—but with care. Wear comfortable clothes (or old ones; orange stains are real), keep your eyes open, and never throw oranges back. It’s considered disrespectful and can sour the festive spirit. Arrive early to secure a good spot along the parade route, and remember: catching an orange is more than fun—it’s a piece of history in your hands.
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Sources
Carnival of Binche — Binche Official Tourism
https://www.binche.be/en/things-to-do/carnivals/carnival-of-binche
Ongoing
Carnival of Binche – UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage
https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/carnival-of-binche-00033
Ongoing