Laetare de Stavelot is a lively spring carnival celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent in the Belgian town of Stavelot. Famous for its mischievous characters known as Blancs-Moussis—cloaked figures dressed in white with long red noses—the festival fills the streets with playful antics, confetti, and laughter. The Blancs-Moussis parade through town, throwing confetti, waving inflated pig bladders, and playfully teasing the crowds. With its mix of humor, tradition, and community joy, the Laetare Carnival of Stavelot is one of Belgium’s most unique and entertaining folk celebrations.
DATES & TIMES
• Season: 14–16 March 2026 (521st Laetare). Official site • Program hub.
• Key moments (official outline): Saturday night parade Stallumez‑vous!; Sunday Grand Parade 13:30 & evening Rondeau; Monday folkloric outings. Practical info.
LOCATION
• Where: Stavelot historic center (Abbey quarter, Grand‑Place & surrounding streets). Tourisme Stavelot.
• Main hub map: Place Saint‑Remacle (Rondeau) — Open in Google Maps • Access/parking plans published on the official page. Access & parking.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Free public event: streets and squares are open‑access; no general ticket is listed on official pages. Official site.
• Entrances & mobility: designated entry points and shuttle/parking zones are signposted each year—check the official plans before arrival. Practical info.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Blancs‑Moussis: iconic white‑clad figures with red‑nosed masks lead Sunday’s parade and evening Rondeau. Blanc‑Moussi (official).
• Timing note: exact day‑by‑day timetable is published on the official program page each season. Program hub.
• Plan ahead: Stavelot gets very busy—use signed car parks and arrive early for Sunday’s 13:30 Grand Parade. Access & parking.