Liège Festivals: A Vibrant Celebration of Folklore and Community in Outremeuse

The Origins of the Liège Festivities: A Centuries-Old Tradition

The Liège Festival dates back to the 17th century, when the procession of the Black Madonna of Outremeuse was established as a religious celebration in honour of the Assumption of Mary on 15 August. Over the centuries, this event has grown into a vibrant folk festival that celebrates Liège folklore and community spirit. At the heart of the festivities are the iconic figures of Tchantchès and Nanèsse, legendary puppets who embody the humour and rebelliousness of the Liège working class. These giants, along with other folkloric figures, play a leading role in the parades and are honoured each year during the festival.

Today, the Liège Festival combines religious traditions with popular festivities, such as the Funeral of Matî l'Ohê (Mathieu the Bone), a comical finale that is unique in the world. The festival reflects the fiery spirit of Liège, nicknamed the Fiery City, and offers a mix of spirituality, humour and local pride.

The Highlight: A Week Full of Festivities and Folklore

DThe Liège Festival is a week of festivities, with 15 August as its beating heart. The highlights of the 2025 programme are:

• Large flea market: The festival kicks off the weekend before 15 August with one of Belgium's largest flea markets, where you can find antiques, vintage clothing and local delicacies on the streets of Outremeuse.

• Torchlight procession and concerts: On 14 August, the festivities officially begin with a torchlight procession through the neighbourhood, followed by free concerts at Place Delcour from 7:30 p.m. Expect a mix of rock, pop and traditional Walloon music, while the pékèt (Liège gin in flavours such as lemon or strawberry) flows freely.

• Procession of the Black Madonna: On 15 August, the day begins with a solemn procession of the Black Madonna through the streets, followed by a mass and a sermon in Walloon at Saint-Nicolas Church. This religious moment attracts both believers and culture lovers.

• Folkloric parade: At 2:30 p.m. on 15 August, the Giant Parade follows, in which Tchantchès, Nanèsse and other giant figures parade through Outremeuse, accompanied by brass bands and more than 1,000 extras in colourful costumes. This is a perfect moment to experience Liège folklore up close.

• Funeral of Matî l'Ohê: On 16 August, the festivities conclude with the hilarious and theatrical funeral of Matî l'Ohê, in which a symbolic bone is buried, accompanied by “weeping widows” who throw celery and lament the end of the festivities. This unique ritual, with fanfares and an exuberant crowd, is an unforgettable finale.

Tip for visitors: Come early to the flea market (Saturday/Sunday before 15 August) for the best finds, and reserve a spot along the Boulevard d'Avroy for a good view of the Giants' Parade.

A Celebration for Everyone: Culture, Food and Fun

The Liège Festivities are more than just a historical celebration; they are an explosion of Walloon culture and conviviality. Some highlights outside of the parades include:

• Culinary traditions: Sample local specialities such as boûkètes (meatballs), pèket and Liège waffles at the markets and stalls. The lively atmosphere at Place Delcour is ideal for enjoying a drink and live music.

• Folk games: Children in particular will enjoy traditional fairground games and attractions, such as the “tir de campes” (firecrackers on a string), an old Liège tradition.

• Free concerts and street theatre: The streets of Outremeuse are buzzing with performances, from puppet shows with Tchantchès to modern bands that get the audience dancing.

• Puppets and giants: Liège folklore comes to life with puppet theatres and giant figures filling the streets, a nod to the city's centuries-old traditions.

The atmosphere is warm and exuberant, with a mix of locals celebrating their heritage and tourists getting caught up in the festive chaos. The historic setting of Outremeuse, with its narrow streets and charming squares, makes the festival extra special.

Sustainability and Accessibility

The Liège Festivals are completely free to attend, making them accessible to everyone. The festival focuses on sustainability with waste recycling and local food stalls. Outremeuse is easily accessible by public transport, such as trains to Liège-Guillemins or buses to the district. The compact layout of the festival makes it easy to walk around, and there are accessible areas for disabled people along the parade route.

Practical tips for 2025:

• Plan your visit: Check www.visitezliege.be for the full programme and updates. Popular spots such as Place Delcour and Boulevard d'Avroy get crowded, so arrive early.

• Weatherproof: August in Liège can be hot, but rain is possible. Bring a light raincoat and comfortable shoes for the cobbled streets.

• Accommodation: Book hotels or Airbnbs in Liège early, especially in the centre or near Outremeuse. Budget options can be found in neighbourhoods such as Saint-Léonard.

• Safety: The festivities are well organised, but keep an eye on your belongings in the crowds. Follow the instructions of stewards and security personnel.

Tips for your Liège Festival Experience

• Want to get the most out of the Liège Festivities ? Here are some tips to help you plan your visit and enjoy this folkloric spectacle:

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  • Check the programme: Visit www.liege.be or www.visitezliege.be for festival details and parade routes. Follow #LiègeFestivals2025 on social media for live updates.

  • Combine your trip: Explore Liège highlights such as the Montagne de Bueren, the Palace of the Prince-Bishops or the Museum of Walloon Life during your visit.

  • Social media: Share your photos of the Giants' Parade or Matî l'Ohê with hashtags such as #LiègeFestivals, #Outremeuse and #BelgianFolklore on Instagram and X.

Why the Liège Festival Should Be on Your Bucket List

The Liège Festival in Outremeuse is a unique celebration of Walloon folklore, humour and community spirit, packed into a week of free events. From the majestic procession of the Black Madonna to the hilarious funeral of Matî l’Ohê, this festival offers an unforgettable immersion into the culture of Liège. Whether you're dancing in Place Delcour, sampling pékèt or admiring the giants, the Liège Festival brings the Fiery City to life.

Plan your visit to the Liège Festival and be enchanted by the magic of Outremeuse. Vive la fête!

Keywords: Liège Festival, free festival Liège, Outremeuse folklore, Black Madonna procession, Matî l'Ohê, Belgian folk festivals.