The Prince of Fools is given a hero's welcome during his arrival in Maastricht on the day before the carnival. Photo by Hans Hollanders. : It's not crazy, it's carnival

With the hoisting of the Mooswief, the carnival is under way. Photos by Joe Dodgshun. : It's not crazy, it's carnival

Celebrations under way. : It's not crazy, it's carnival

The Prince of Fools' arrival parade pulls up in front of the city hall. : It's not crazy, it's carnival

The grand parade float of the Keemeleers - one of the many suburb carnival associations, all of which have their own carnival prince. : It's not crazy, it's carnival