Carnaval et Grand Feu de Wavre
Wavre's Laetare carnival combined with the symbolic Grand Feu bonfire, carnival troupes and a funfair on Place Cardinal Mercier.
Drive local and regional tourism and hospitality bookings by positioning Wavre's carnival as a must-attend cultural event with food, entertainment, and family-friendly attractions.
- Carnival troupes & Grand Feu bonfire: a centuries-old Laetare tradition in Wavre
- Family funfair on Place Cardinal Mercier—plan your carnival weekend getaway
- Local food & drink specials during Wavre's carnival season
- Behind-the-scenes carnival troupe preparation and cultural heritage stories
The Carnaval de Wavre is a tradition well-rooted in the city's life, combining carnival with the Grand Feu, a focal point of local folklore. The carnival features a procession that traverses the city and honours groups, costumes, and animations. The Grand Feu concludes the event with a festive and symbolic ritual very present in Walloon traditions.
Saturday 14 March
Carnaval des enfants (14h30–17h30) at Town Hall: costume contests, animations, face-painting, castle gonflable election of Prince and Princess to open Sunday parade
Sunday 15 March
10h: town centre closed to traffic 11h11: official opening with ceremonial presentation of city keys to royal couple 15h: procession departure with ~20 groups from rue de Namur 16h: first group enters Place Cardinal Mercier 17h25: Gilles du Maca arrive 17h30: rondeau final and Grand Feu (bonfire, weather permitting)