Cwarmê de Malmedy
Walloon carnival over 4 days, famed for its 15 traditional masked characters (Haguète, Long-Né).
Promote authentic cultural tourism and local hospitality around a centuries-old Walloon carnival tradition featuring iconic masked characters.
- Behind-the-scenes of Cwarmê's 15 traditional masked characters and their symbolic meanings
- Travel guide: 4-day carnival itinerary in Malmedy with local food & lodging recommendations
- Costume & mask-making workshops tied to Haguète and Long-Né character traditions
- Local vendor spotlights: artisans and restaurants thriving during carnival season
Cwarmê is a fantastic carnival stretching over 4 days of festivities, famous for its fascinating masks: no less than 15 different characters. It is listed as intangible heritage of the French Community of Belgium. This historic Walloon carnival features over 1,500 masked participants parading through Malmedy's streets across Saturday to Tuesday (ending at midnight before Ash Wednesday). Saturday: "Giant Police" open festivities, Trouv'lê receives grain shovel from mayor (symbol of renewal) and reigns until Tuesday Sunday is climax: 5,000 participants in 15 traditional masks, Haguète dances and Hârlikins combat in great colourful parade Monday features "Lu Toûr do Londi" – festive parade with humorous scenes in Walloon (newly revived after years away) Tuesday closes with traditional burning of Haguète at Albert Ier square, 19h Walloon is spoken at all events; even without understanding the language visitors eagerly join the fun 566th edition of this carnival, first recorded in 1459 true
Part 1
Saturday 14 Feb