Theme

In the parade, events from the past come to life, related to a theme and to Brabant. The 16 float-building groups creatively translate these into the present. The result: a passing total theater with original designs and bold techniques, which tells a complete story in just a few minutes.

Theme of Brabantsedag 2026 announced: “Alles uit de kast”
“Pulling Out All the Stops” is the theme of the 67th Brabantsedag in Heeze. It was announced on Thursday, November 6, during the annual theme presentation. The sixteen float-building groups are challenged to truly pull out all the stops. They may choose any remarkable historical event from the Duchy of Brabant to portray. The only condition: it must not have appeared before in the theatre parade. The result promises to be a Brabantsedag full of surprising stories, creativity, and fresh perspectives.

New stories from Brabant’s history
After 66 editions, around a thousand subjects from the rich history of the Duchy of Brabant have already been featured. Yet there are still plenty of untold stories. With this new theme, the float builders will add sixteen new chapters to the ever-growing “Brabantsedag Encyclopedia.”

Dust off those books
Frank van Lierop, chairman of the Theme Committee of the Brabantsedag Foundation, urges the groups to dig deep: “Grab every book you can find, dust them off, leaf through the pages, and dive into the archives. Look for that one gem that’s significant for our Brabant history. If the chosen subject is surprising and challenging, something truly special will emerge.”

Freedom within clear boundaries
Each year, the float builders receive a central theme. It provides guidance and inspiration. Sometimes the framework is tight — this year, it’s minimal. Two rules always apply: the chosen subject must be a historical story or event from the Duchy of Brabant, and it must have taken place at least 50 years ago.