Execution of Mathy-Loxhet, the Great Spa Bonfire

This fantastically original spectacle at the end of the Carnival festivitities originates from an old custom of the people of the Province of Liège.

The main character is known as either Mati L'Ohe, or Mathy Loxet, or even Mathieu l'Os, (Mathew the Bone), who represents the carnival. His name comes from when once upon a time a ham-leg bone was solemnly buried on this occasion.

The character, masked and fully dressed, is transported through the town on his float escorted by a beautiful parade to his place of execution. Why? Because Mati L'Ohé is guilty of a heinous crime: encouraging the town people to spend extravagantly during the "Gras" (Fat) days of Carnival.

After being judged and sentenced, Mati L'Ohé is condemned to be hung and burnt on the main square.

The procession leaves from the Place de l'Hôtel de Ville at 2:30 pm
Bonfire at 5:30 pm

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