Belgium’s Unseen Festival Traditions: Revealing the Hidden Gems of Celebration

Belgium is a country known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. But one aspect of Belgian culture that often goes unnoticed by visitors is its vibrant festival traditions. From quirky local events to internationally renowned celebrations, Belgium offers a wide array of festivals that showcase the country’s unique spirit and traditions. In this article, we will explore some of Belgium’s unseen festival traditions and reveal the hidden gems of celebration that make this country a truly special place.

The Essence of Belgian Festivals

Belgian festivals are a true reflection of the country’s diverse history, diverse culture, and joie de vivre. From religious processions to colorful parades, these events bring together locals and visitors alike to celebrate and have a good time. Belgian festivals are known for their jovial atmosphere, lively music, delicious food, and, of course, the famous Belgian beer.

Belgium is a country with three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. This linguistic diversity is also reflected in the variety of festivals celebrated throughout the country. Each region has its own unique traditions and customs, resulting in a fascinating tapestry of festivals that showcase the cultural richness of Belgium.

The Unseen Belgian Festivals

While some Belgian festivals, such as the famous Carnaval de Binche or the Gentse Feesten, are well-known both locally and internationally, there are many lesser-known festivals that deserve attention. These hidden gems offer a unique glimpse into Belgian culture and provide unforgettable experiences for those who attend. Let’s discover some of these unseen Belgian festivals:

1. Sinksenfoor – The Antwerp Summer Fair

The Sinksenfoor is Belgium’s largest and oldest funfair, held annually in the city of Antwerp. With origins dating back to the 19th century, this fair attracts millions of visitors every year. The fairgrounds come alive with thrilling rides, traditional fairground games, food stalls offering Belgian delicacies, and a lively atmosphere that can be felt throughout the city. Sinksenfoor is an event not to be missed for anyone seeking a taste of Belgian fun and excitement.

Learn more about Sinksenfoor here.

2. Ros Beiaardommegang – The Procession of the Holy Horse

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The Ros Beiaardommegang is a historic and mythical procession that takes place once every ten years in the city of Dendermonde. The highlight of this procession is the Ros Beiaard, a giant wooden horse that is carried through the streets by a group of strong men. The procession is a tribute to the legend of the Four Sons of Aymon and attracts thousands of spectators who come to witness this unique spectacle. The next Ros Beiaardommegang will take place in 2024, so mark your calendars and be a part of this extraordinary event.

3. La Ducasse d’Ath – The Giants’ Procession

La Ducasse d’Ath is an ancient festival that takes place in the town of Ath, in the French-speaking Wallonia region. This colorful procession features the famous “giants” of Ath, huge statues representing historical and mythological figures, parading through the streets. The giants are accompanied by traditional music bands, folkloric dancers, and a vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of Belgian celebration. La Ducasse d’Ath is recognized as a UNESCO Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity and is truly a sight to behold.

Read more about Belgian festivals here.

4. Fire Festivals – Lichtfeesten and Fêtes de la Saint-Eloi

Belgium has a long tradition of fire festivals, which are celebrated in various towns across the country. The Lichtfeesten in Rekem and the Fêtes de la Saint-Eloi in Mons are two examples of these unique events. The Lichtfeesten takes place on the last Saturday of January and features a torchlight procession through the historic center of Rekem, lighting up the night with a mesmerizing display of flames and sparks. The Fêtes de la Saint-Eloi, held in Mons on the first weekend of July, celebrates the patron saint of blacksmiths and metalworkers with a procession of giant torches and a festive atmosphere that brings the town to life.

5. Meyboom – The Planting of the Meyboom

The Meyboom is a tradition that has been celebrated in the city of Brussels for over 700 years. On August 9th, a tree is planted in the heart of the city to commemorate a legendary event from the Middle Ages. The Meyboom planting is accompanied by a lively procession, traditional music, and a festive atmosphere that attracts both locals and curious tourists. This unique festival is a testament to the deep-rooted traditions of Brussels and is recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO.

Conclusion

Belgium’s unseen festival traditions offer a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage and provide unforgettable experiences for those looking to explore the hidden gems of celebration. From the Antwerp Summer Fair to the Procession of the Holy Horse and the Giants’ Procession, these festivals showcase the diverse customs and traditions that make Belgium such a unique and vibrant country. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, attending one of these unseen Belgian festivals is a must-do to truly immerse yourself in the spirit of Belgian celebration.