Malmedy Cwarmé (Haguète & Longs-Nés)Carnaval de Malmedy (Cwarmé)
Malmedy, Wallonia (Liège), Belgium
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🎟 Free entry
FestivalAtlas
The Malmedy Carnival (, locally called the Cwarmé) is a centuries-old Walloon carnival held in Malmedy, Liège. For four days (from Saturday to Mardi Gras) the town erupts in color with costumed groups and traditional dances. Participants known as "Longs-Nés" and comic characters like the Haguète parade through streets accompanied by brass bands. The festival culminates with the burning of the Haguète effigy on Mardi Gras, symbolizing the end of winter. Visitors witness thousands of revelers in masks (over 5,000 participants on Sunday) celebrating local folklore 1 2.
Malmedy’s carnival is an emblem of Walloon cultural heritage, reflecting medieval carnival traditions. The event is deeply rooted in the town’s identity: a town crier (Lu Trouv’lê) ceremonially hands over authority to the Carnival (La ‘Grosse Police’) and iconic figures like the Haguète interact with spectators in Walloon’s local dialect. This folkloric festival strengthens community bonds and celebrates Malmedy’s unique history 1 2.
Venues and routes
Place du Châtelet · Malmedy
The dates that shape the visit.
Opening day · Sat, Feb 6
Mayor hands city keys to the Trouv'lêvûx who becomes 'king' of the carnival.
Arrive early to see the ceremonial handover; families gather for the playful spectacle.
Final act: the effigy 'Haguète' (symbolizing winter) is ceremoniously burned, marking the end of carnival and the symbolic farewell to winter.
This is spectacular but chilly; arrive early to secure a spot and stay aware of safety barriers.
Day 2 · Sun, Feb 7
Crowds of masked groups (Haguète, Longs-Nés, harlekins, etc.) march through town. Begins at Place du Châtelet and loops through main streets.
Secure a spot along the route by 13:30; expect music, confetti, and interact with friendly masked figures.
Reference notes for once this becomes a real plan.
Practical notes refreshed Mar 4.
High crowds · Energetic energy
Very crowded in the main square and parade routes; open areas are more spacious.
Well-managed public event; normal city policing in place and festival security roaming.
Can be cold and wet in February · The carnival continues in light rain/snow
Daily budget: €60-90 · Drinks: €3-5 for beer/soft drinks
Use local buses, cook simple meals or share costs, bring a refillable water bottle.
From center: Festival events take place at Place du Châtelet in central Malmedy. · City center is mostly flat