The carnival of Braine-le-Château PDF Print
Even if the carnival of Braine-le-Château is no longer the largest or the most colourful, it has no reason to be jealous of the other carnivals of the region, as the fervour of the 'gilles' (jesters) at the pillory is able to carry along in its wake all the residents who happily participate in their carnival festivities, which take place the third Sunday of Lent.

The company of jesters of the pillory, the only company of jesters in Braine-le-Château, has for over 20 years perpetuated, alone, the tradition of the 'gille' and each year at carnival makes the heart of the residents (young and old) beat to the rhythm of the pounding of clogs. This company is made up of 'gilles' and countrymen who start gathering on Sunday at dawn before sauntering through the streets throughout the day. On Monday, children come first, thanks to the election of the carnival mini-prince and mini-princess, before they rejoin their elders in the evening for the burning of 'bonhomme hiver' (Old Man Winter), followed by fireworks.  The activities end on Monday with the release of balloons and burning of humpbacked straw figures, the music of the fair having resounded throughout the weekend.