Event highlights:
- Traditional costumes & masks: Meet the famous Trouv’lé holding his grain shovel, the formidable Haguète armed with her “hapochar”, or the Long-Nez. Every character boasts a distinct costume and unique rituals you will encounter around every corner.
- The Grand Sunday Parade: A breathtaking spectacle featuring thousands of costumed participants marching in an electric atmosphere. This is the beating heart of Malmedy folklore, blending brass bands, dance troupes, and local satire.
- The Dance of the Haguète: Take part in the ritual where masked performers invite the audience to dance alongside them. It is a warm moment of sharing where the line between spectators and actors completely disappears.
- Burning of the Haguète: On Tuesday evening, festivities come to a symbolic close with a massive bonfire on the Place de Rome, marking the end of winter and the beginning of Lent.
Host’s “Action” tip 💡
« The gîte bonus: The Cwarmê is best experienced from the inside! We suggest heading downtown as early as Saturday afternoon to feel the excitement build up. Make sure to taste the “salade russe”, the iconic traditional dish served with love in all local establishments during carnival. Note: the town center is entirely pedestrianized during the event, so park your car at the gîte and enjoy the atmosphere on foot! »
Practical information
Address: Malmedy Town Centre, 4960 Malmedy, Belgium