Each year, the region of Wallonia bursts into life with vibrant carnivals that reflect the rich history and folklore of Belgium. These lively celebrations, steeped in tradition, draw thousands of visitors who join locals in festivities that symbolize cultural pride. The roots of Walloon carnivals can be traced back to the Middle Ages, marking the period of transition from winter to spring. Historically, these events were a time of revelry and indulgence before the solemnity of Lent, maintaining a unique blend of pagan and religious elements that continue to this day.
Key Carnival Highlights for 2025
The carnival season in 2025 is set to commence on Sunday, February 23, with the lively Bastogne carnival and will conclude with the Stavelot Laetare on Monday, March 24. Throughout this festive period, numerous carnivals will take place across various communes, towns, and villages in Wallonia, extending even to Flanders and Brussels.
Must-See Carnivals to Attend
- Binche Carnival (March 2-4, 2025): Recognized as a UNESCO intangible heritage site, this carnival is renowned for its Gilles—characters donning elaborately decorated costumes and wax masks who engage the crowd by tossing oranges.
- Cwarmê de Malmedy (March 1-4, 2025): Over four days, this carnival showcases a grand procession featuring more than 1,500 participants and 15 traditional costumes. The Haguète, its iconic character, playfully captures the attention of onlookers with a “Happe-chair”.
- Carnaval de La Louvière (March 9-11, 2025): This mid-Lent celebration is marked by the presence of Gilles, traditional music, and a grand parade that commences at 3 am on Sunday.
- Laetare de Stavelot (March 22-24, 2025): Famous for the “Blancs Moussis”, characters clad entirely in white with long noses, this carnival is a humorous spectacle where confetti flies through the air. The Confrérie Folklorique des Blancs Moussis boasts over 350 members dedicated to preserving the Blanc Moussi tradition and enhancing tourism in Stavelot.
The carnival atmosphere is invigorated by its early beginnings, as participants don their costumes at dawn. Streets come alive with parades led by brass bands and folk groups, complemented by street performances, dances, and songs throughout the day. The traditional practices of tossing oranges and confetti contribute to the jubilant ambiance. In the evening, the celebrations frequently culminate in fireworks or the symbolic burning of an effigy. For many residents, carnival transcends mere festivity; it embodies a time for fostering community ties and passing down traditions through generations. The people of Wallonia take immense pride in these vibrant customs.
Spotlight on the Dragon Carnival in Emines
The Knights of Emines Carnival is scheduled for February 1 and 2, 2025. The festivities will kick off on Saturday, February 1, at 1 pm with a children’s carnival featuring a medieval village and indoor games. On Sunday, February 2, a carnival dinner will take place at the Emines cultural center at 12:30 pm, followed by a carnival procession at 3 pm. As evening approaches, a clash among children, ladies, and titans, along with the lighting of a bonfire and a fireworks display, will add to the excitement. Although specific historical details about the Emines carnival are scarce, updates can be found on their official website.
As the carnival season approaches, enthusiasts can look forward to a calendar filled with vibrant celebrations across Wallonia, promising an unforgettable experience infused with tradition and community spirit.