Bêtes et Sorcières Festival
Halloween Festival at Malbrouck Castle in Manderen-Ritzing
About Bêtes et Sorcières
Malbrouck Castle Under a Spell
Every year, as Halloween approaches, the majestic Malbrouck Castle in Manderen-Ritzing transforms to host the Bêtes et Sorcières Festival. This 15th-century medieval fortress, owned by the Department of Moselle, offers a spectacular setting for this event that blends thrills and wonder, attracting thousands of visitors of all ages each year.
A Fantastic Universe
Decorations and Scenography
For the occasion, the entire castle is fully decorated and transformed into a fantasy world. Each room, each corridor, each inner courtyard is filled with thematic decorations populated by supernatural creatures, skeletons, witches, and ghosts. The meticulous and immersive scenography plunges visitors into an atmosphere that is both eerie and playful, suitable for all audiences.
Workshops and Activities
The festival offers numerous creative workshops for young and old: mask making, witch makeup, magic potions, pumpkin carving, and Halloween decoration crafting. Costumed parades, spooky storytelling, treasure hunts within the castle, and quest games complete the program.
Processions and Shows
The festival's highlights include grand torchlight processions in the castle courtyards, pyrotechnic shows that set the fortress ablaze at nightfall, and performances by actors and street artists who bring to life the legends and myths associated with Halloween and Lorraine folklore.
Malbrouck Castle
Malbrouck Castle, built in 1419, is one of Moselle's most remarkable historical monuments. Restored by the Department, it hosts exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year. Its imposing silhouette, four towers, and thick walls make it an ideal location for the Bêtes et Sorcières Festival, whose success grows with each edition.
A Popular Family Event
The festival has become an unmissable event for families in Moselle and the Greater Region. Its success is such that some days sell out, making advance booking essential. The event contributes to the renown of Malbrouck Castle and the tourist appeal of northern Moselle.
Bêtes et Sorcières — edition 2026
Prices Bêtes et Sorcières 2026
Practical information — Bêtes et Sorcières
Access
Malbrouck Castle is located in Manderen-Ritzing, in northern Moselle, near the German and Luxembourg borders.
- By car: From Thionville (25 km), follow D64 towards Sierck-les-Bains then Manderen. From Metz (55 km), take the A31 towards Thionville then D654 towards Sierck-les-Bains and Manderen. From Luxembourg or Germany, access via Sierck-les-Bains. Free parking is available at the foot of the castle with ample capacity. Expect heavy crowds on weekend days.
- By bus: Bus connections from Thionville and Sierck-les-Bains (limited schedules). It is strongly recommended to prioritize driving to access the castle, as public transport is infrequent in this rural area.
Location
Château de Malbrouck, 57480 Manderen-Ritzing. 15th-century medieval fortress restored by the Department of Moselle. The festival takes over the entire castle: inner courtyards, exhibition halls, towers, and ramparts. The tour through the decorated castle takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Opening Hours
The festival takes place over three days at the end of October (Friday, Saturday, Sunday), around Halloween. Precise times are announced each year on the Department of Moselle website. Generally: Friday from 2 PM to 9 PM, Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 7 PM. Some pyrotechnic shows take place at dusk.
Prices and Booking
Admission is paid. Prices include access to all festival activities, workshops, and shows. Reduced rates for children and family rates. Booking is highly recommended as some days (Saturday and Sunday) sell out several weeks in advance. Booking is done on the Department of Moselle website.
Practical Advice
Bring warm and waterproof clothing (late October, outdoors). Comfortable shoes are recommended for visiting the castle (stairs, cobblestones). Children are encouraged to come in costume to immerse themselves in the Halloween atmosphere. A catering area is available on site. Strollers may be difficult to maneuver in certain parts of the castle (narrow stairs).
Contact
Department of Moselle: www.moselle.fr
Malbrouck Castle: 03 82 82 42 62
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Where does it take place — Bêtes et Sorcières
Château de Malbrouck
Château de Malbrouck, Manderen-Ritzing, 57480 Manderen-Ritzing