Have you ever heard of a 'Spietslauper'? Far from a forgotten custom, it is one of the most unique and vibrant local traditions in Maasmechelen (Belgian Limburg), carefully maintained by the carnival association KC De Zavelzekskes. It’s a custom steeped in history, carnival madness, and—most importantly—the need for a final, rich meal before a period of abstinence.
The Historical Origin: The Necessity of Bacon
The 'Spietslaupe' (roughly translating to 'Speck-Run' or 'Speck-Trot') originates in a distant past, driven by a simple, practical reason: Shrove Tuesday (Vastenavond). On the day before Ash Wednesday—the start of the 40 days of Lent—people had to use up the last of their fatty, rich food stocks.
The goal was to fill your stomach one last time with high-calorie food. Hence, the focus on the traditional meal: Bacon and Eggs. Historically, this was prepared with Speck (cured pork fat/belly) to ensure it was rich enough for the final feast.
The Spietslauper: An Honorific Title and Annual Duty
The Spietslauper is the central figure and leader of this tradition. Within the carnival association, the Spietslauper is the person exclusively responsible for organizing and leading the entire Spietslaupe event on Shrove Tuesday. His role is an honorific title that lasts an entire year.
The Ceremony: November 11th and the Ritual of the Egg
The appointment of the Spietslauper is a significant ritual marking the start of the new season.
On November 11th—a date famous for Armistice Day, but also the official start of the carnival season ('the eleventh of the eleventh')—the new Spietslauper is officially announced.
This event takes place spectacularly: the church square is transformed into an open-air carnival tent. The ceremony begins exactly at 11:11 AM, the magical carnival hour.
It is accompanied by a ceremonial transfer of power:
Dethroning and Punishment: First, the outgoing Spietslauper officially steps down. As a symbolic conclusion to his term, he is subjected to a 'cleansing' or symbolic punishment. This involves cracking several eggs onto his head. A uniquely sticky end to a year of duty!
Appointment: Subsequently, the new Spietslauper is announced, officially taking on the mantle of leadership for the coming year.
The Day Itself: A Morning Trek of Folklore
The Spietslaupers symbolically offer residents a slice of bread with bacon and eggs, serving as the final fatty bite before Lent. In return, the carnival association is usually rewarded with a small financial contribution.
It is a day of community, noise, costumes, and the proud preservation of local cultural heritage. It is Shrove Tuesday, the Maasmechelen way!
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I know pancake day (UK) as Shrove Tuesday, but never heard of bacon and eggs so it is interesting to see how different countries recognize this day.
Same idea other rituals.
Oh, so it's kind of like "Fat Tuesday" I've never heard of this before, but it sounds interesting. Plus, I'm usually always down for a good festival as long as there is space for all the people!
Wasn’t so crowded when it started, started to get packed around 1.30 pm.
It is the official start of the carnaval season here. Will be a short one because Easter is early next year.
Oh wow, interesting. We don't usually start all of that stuff until March or April I think.