The Group

Composition

During parades, the Koninklijke Steltenlopers van Merchtem march in a recognizable, fixed order. The parade is opened by the flag bearer, proudly carrying the club's banner. Then come the block walkers, with their typical wooden clogs mounted on skis or planks – a nod to the cold winters of the past.

The musicians bring energy to the parade, accompanying both the block walkers and the stilt walkers with lively tunes. The stilt walkers form the core of the group: from 1 to 4 meters high, steady on their feet – or rather, stilts – and always crowd-pullers. At the very end, the ladder bearers close the parade.

The Koninklijke Steltenlopers are more than tradition bearers – it’s also a place where young people feel at home. With a vibrant youth section and an enthusiastic youth board, fun activities are regularly organized, nurturing a new generation in the spirit of folklore, friendship, and joy.

Performances

We perform as a full group in all kinds of parades: carnival parades, folklore parades, flower parades, Saint Nicholas parades, giant processions, and more. The 20 to 30 stilt walkers are preceded by the flag bearers, block walkers, and a lively music band with about 20 live musicians. Ladder bearers walk at the very end. During parades, we request to be placed among the first three groups for the safety of both stilt walkers and spectators.