Blueberry Festival

On the day following the Sabbath of the Macralles (witches) the little town of Vielsalm celebrates the festival of the blueberries. In Vielsam on 21 July 2012

According to the legend a group of young people returning from an unsuccessful gathering of blueberries met an old woman carrying a basket filled with the fruit. When the woman saw how frustrated they were she offered them a glass of "pecket" (a potent drink of flavoured alcohol) and some "Tcha Tcha" (a nectar of freshly crushed blueberries).

After drinking this the youngsters were transformed into ... Macralles! The best entertainment of this festival is undoubtedly the witches carrying their broomsticks around, swinging them in all directions and sprinkling the crowd with bone powder. Also joining in the parade are the Giants whose theme is this tasty red fruit.

From 11am: crafts market, Rue du Vieux Marché
2pm: procession in the city streets followed by the finale parade in the city park.
7pm: musical animations by local groups.
11pm: fireworks at the city park, Rue de l'Hôtel de Ville, followed by concert with various music

Entrance fee for the city. Free of charge for children under 12

Visit our partners' webpages

• The Autumn Festival