THE CUCURBITADES IN MARCHIENNES - Oct. 2nd and 3rd 2010

Another carnival !

This time with witches. Up to the end of the occupation by the Holy Roman Empire, the butchers of the Inquisition soaked almost every corner of our rebellious lands in blood.

Marchiennes, like all of Thiérache and neighbouring Flanders, was no exception. It is commemorated here and, to exorcise it, we sing, dance, put on make-up and party !

Who knows why the gourd family is associated with witches!

The fact remains that for three whole days cucumbers, marrows and pumpkins of all kinds are honoured, pilloried, decorated, hollowed out and devoured while 35,000 carnival goers sing, laugh and dance.