Wednesday, September 10, 2025

Carbide Shooting in Drenthe

Carbide shooting in Drenthe is a traditional New Year's Eve activity, recognized as Dutch intangible cultural heritage since 2014. 
It involves firing a ball from a milk can through an explosion of calcium carbide and water, which produces a loud bang. 
This custom, which originated in the late 19th century as a replacement for gunpowder in blunderbusses, is mainly found in the northern and eastern Netherlands, such as Drenthe, where it fosters a sense of community and conviviality. 
Groups of friends prepare for the event, often with traditional snacks like pea soup and oliebollen (Dutch doughnuts). 
The Drenthe Carbide Shooting Foundation promotes and preserves the tradition, with an annual Milk Can Trophy for the winner of the Open Drenthe Championship.








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