Carnival celebrations or Fuesend

What is Carnival like in Luxembourg?

Depending on the year, February/March in Luxembourg is marked by Carnival celebrations. These are among Luxembourg's most joyful traditions. They consist of a period of revelry and festivities inthe municipalities. The Carnival period officially begins in Luxembourg on February 2, Candlemas Day and Liichtmëssdag in Luxembourg. This day marks the last day of Carnival celebrations. It is also the day when people eat more "fatty" foods, as the following day, Ash Wednesday, marks the beginning of Lent for Christians. In Christian tradition, the Carnival period officially ends on Shrove Tuesday, which will take place on February 17, 2026. The term "carnival" comes from the Italian "carnelevare," which means "to remove meat." Ash Wednesday, February 18, 2026, marks the official beginning of Lent. This is the period of fasting preceding Easter, observed by Catholics in the country. The town of Remich celebrates Ash Wednesday in its own way by burning a straw figure, the "Stréimännchen," every year. This tradition, which has existed since 1821, has a special feature in leap years, as the figure is a woman, the "Streifrächen." This was the case this year in 2024. This large straw figure is carried through the streets of the town in a grand procession. Tied to the bridge over the Moselle, it is then set alight. The ashes fall into the Moselle, symbolically heralding the end of winter. This tradition is similar to the"Buergbrennen".

Carnival treats: Fuesendkichelcher

During the carnival period, Luxembourgers traditionally enjoy "carnival cakes." These "Fuesendkichelcher" in Luxembourgish are delicious doughnuts made from yeast dough, flour, and eggs. They are then fried in oil and sprinkled with sugar. Verwuelter are a special type of Fusendkichelcher. They are recognizable by their knot shape . You can find them in different sizes in bakeries and pastry shops throughout the country, and even in supermarkets. Pets-de-Nonne or "Nonnefäscht" are another Carnival treat (our favorite!). Pets-de-nonne are made from choux pastry fried in hot oil. They are then sprinkled with icing sugar before being eaten. They are delicious! If you like culinary traditions, don't miss the galette des Rois on Epiphany on January 6, or the crêpes de la Chandeleur on February 2.

Carnival masked balls in Luxembourg

Traditionally, during the Carnival period, Luxembourgers enjoy a series of festive outings and entertainment such as joyful parades. Carnival kicks off with the opening of the masked ball season. Luxembourg's towns and villages each organize their own, to the delight of young and old alike. Traditionally, on the eve of the Carnival school holidays, primary school children go to school in fancy dress. After-school clubs and youth associations organize numerous masked balls. Check with your local council or keep an eye on the signs at the entrance to villages to find out about the Carnival festivities planned in your municipality.

Parades and joyful processions in Luxembourg's towns

The Carnival period in Luxembourg is marked above all by Cavalcades. These joyful processions led by people in costume parade through the largest cities to the delight of the population.

Dierkirch Cavalcade

Diekirch saw the first parade in Luxembourg in 1870. Since then, the tradition has continued. Every year, around 20,000 to 25,000 spectators attend the festivities. The Diekirch Cavalcade is undoubtedly the most memorable event of the carnival in Luxembourg. It takes 8 to 10 months of preparation for the 1,800 participants in the parade. A jury determines the most beautiful walking groups and floats. Prizes of up to €500 are awarded for the quality of the costumes and decorations, originality, etc. Several thousand Carnival doughnuts or Verwuelter and several tons of candy, sweets, and gadgets are distributed to onlookers. The parade starts on Route de Larochette and stretches for 2 kilometers. A raffle is also organized, with prizes of up to €400 for spectators. DJs are on hand throughout the event to liven up the day and keep the party going until 3 a.m. Shuttle buses make it easier to get to the venue. For more information, visit cavalcade.lu.

Esch-sur-Alzette parade during "Fues Weekend"

Esch-sur-Alzette alsohosts a very popular cavalcade. It takes place during the "Escher Fues Weekend" and celebrates the event with DJs and cover bands. The festivities begin on Friday evening with an after-work party starting at 5 p.m. on the Place de l'Hôtel de Ville, where a large marquee is erected.

Nuetskavalkad in Wasserbillig

Wasserbillig traditionally organizes its Nuetscavalcade on Saturday evening in mid-Lent. The festivities begin at nightfall, starting at 6 p.m. During the parade, people in costume hand out sweets along the 1,800-meter route. Spectators can also enjoy wine and fruit juice in a festive and joyful atmosphere. A "King of the Pretzel" is elected during this event. He is replaced by a "Queen of the Pretzel" in leap years.

Remich and its parade

The Remich parade is also famous. Very popular, it also takes place in mid-Lent or "1/2 Faaschten" in Luxembourgish. Carnival is a joyful and lively time, including in Luxembourg! Have fun! Carnival in Luxembourg, with its flamboyant parades and lively masked balls, is reminiscent of other charming cultural traditions such as the famous Bretzelsonndeg, celebrated enthusiastically by lovers.