FECC – Federation of European Carnival Cities

The Federation of European Carnival Cities (FECC) is an international, non-profit organization that brings together carnival cities, associations, and individuals dedicated to preserving and promoting one of Europe’s most vibrant cultural traditions — Carnival.

Historical Background

The origins of FECC date back to 1975, when the City of Amsterdam celebrated its 700th anniversary. On that occasion, local carnival associations organized a major international gathering at the RAI Congress Center, bringing together thousands of participants, including official delegations and carnival representatives from across Europe.

This event marked the beginning of structured international cooperation among carnival communities.

The Federation itself was formally established in 1980 in Patras (Greece), following several years of growing collaboration and exchange between European carnival organizations.

During the following years, the organization continued to develop through international meetings and cultural exchanges. By the mid-1980s, the need for a more defined structure became evident, leading to the creation of national sections and a formal organizational framework.

Among the key figures involved in the early development and structuring of FECC were representatives from several countries, including Henk van der Kroon (Netherlands), Rega (Belgium), Breyer (Luxembourg), Attard (Malta), and Pascal (United Kingdom), who formed part of the first structured leadership of the Federation in the 1980s.

Henk van der Kroon, one of the central figures in the early development of FECC and its first international president, played a decisive role in shaping the Federation’s vision and strengthening international cooperation among carnival cities.

FECC was subsequently registered in Luxembourg as a non-profit association, where its official seat remains today.

Mission and Objectives

FECC operates as a democratic and inclusive organization, respecting the fundamental rights and freedoms of all its members, regardless of political views, religious beliefs, or background.

The Federation’s core objectives include:

Connecting carnival cities worldwide
Creating a platform for collaboration, dialogue, and exchange of ideas among carnival communities across Europe, the Mediterranean, and beyond.
Preserving cultural heritage
Collecting, documenting, and safeguarding traditions, customs, costumes, and historical knowledge related to Carnival.
Promoting cultural exchange
Encouraging exhibitions, joint events, and international cooperation while maintaining and respecting each country’s unique identity.
Supporting youth engagement
Actively involving younger generations in carnival traditions and fostering international youth exchange programs.

FECC Today

Today, FECC represents a broad international network of carnival cities and organizations that collaborate through:

international meetings and assemblies
cultural exchanges and delegations
participation in carnival events across member countries
promotion of carnival traditions through digital platforms and media
development of partnerships that strengthen cultural tourism and local communities

Through its activities, FECC continues to act as a bridge between tradition and modernity, ensuring that Carnival remains a living cultural expression while preserving its historical roots.

Board Members

FECC International Board 2024 – 2027
The Federation of European Carnival Cities (FECC) proudly presents its current International Board, elected during the prestigious gathering in Pernik, Bulgaria. This significant event brought together carnival enthusiasts, city and culture representatives from around the globe.

The newly elected board continues the FECC’s mission to promote and preserve the cultural heritage of carnival traditions, fostering unity and cooperation among member cities. The elections in Pernik highlighted the spirit of friendship and the shared passion for maintaining and celebrating this vibrant aspect of European culture.
Federation of European Carnival Cities International board members are:

Lars Algell – President, Sweden
Aleksandar Cicimov – Vice President – Treasurer, North Macedonia
Marion Hirche – Vice President, Germany
Sebastien Haas – Secretary General, Luxembourg
Aleksandar Vasovic – Member, Serbia
Raymond Vella – Member, Malta
Goran Bozovic – Assessor of the IB, Montenegro

Stay tuned for more updates on the activities and initiatives led by the FECC International Board.