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  • Folklore and Tradition

Some Belgian carnivals are called Laetare: a fitting name as it means "rejoice" in Latin. This cheerful tradition in La Louvière is over a hundred years old and the party lasts three days and three nights. Come along!

Sunday: the Gilles

The festivities start early - at 3 am! In each neighbourhood, the Gilles (the real stars of the carnival) gather before heading towards the city centre. They will meet in front of the City Hall. At noon, everyone is ready. The rondeau (traditional dances) start, bringing together stunning characters, all in traditional costumes. The Gilles, with their impressive feathered hats, then share oranges with the crowd. The day ends with fantastic fireworks on the Place Communale.

Monday: the procession

The Gilles fill the streets from 10 am, adding cheerfulness with music, games and theatre plays. The much-looked forward procession starts at 5 pm from the Place Maugrétout, the procession starts. Over 800 participants, together with orchestras, walk through the city, all the way to the Place Mansart where more folkloric dances will take place. The day ends, once more, with fireworks.

Tuesday: the party

Clowns, harlequins, Indians... Colour is everywhere. To mark the end of the carnival a mannequin dressed as a Gille is burnt on a bonfire. A fantastic finale for this unique carnival.

 

We do our best to keep you informed. It's best, however, to check the latest news with the attraction you are visiting, or operator you have booked an activity with. Read our travel advice.
This information is given for indication purposes only, best to check with the site you hope to visit before heading there - by phone, email, social media or simply by visiting their website.

Event planned for the month of March 2025 (1)


(1) Dates and programme may be subject to change.

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