Ommegang marks start of the Belgian presidency of the EU

This page has been automatically translated from French into English by a translation software. Automatic translations are not as accurate as translations made by professional human translators. Nevertheless these pages can help you understand information published by the City of Brussels.

   

The Ommegang finds its origin in a procession which took place at the end of the 14th century in Brussels. Today, this show became one of oldest folk events celebrated in Europe.

Ommegang on the Grand-Place

The show is based on the remembrance of the coming of Charles the Fifth in Brussels in 1549 to present his son, the future Philippe II. 1.400 actors, 39 historic and folk groups, 40 horses, 7 giants and dragons will march on the Grand-Place in a big show. The singer Jo Lemaire tells the story in French, singer Johan Verminnen takes care of the Dutch tale.

Belgian presidency EU

The Ommegang benefits from an international reputation. Every year 1.000 to 1.500 tourists attend the show. Other European cities like San Marino, Sulmona, Düren, Tortosa... already did the same. In 2010, the Ommegang will also mark the start of the Belgian presidency of the EU, from 1 July until 31 December 2010. It will be the first event on the list of cultural activities celebrating this presidency.

Medieval village on the Place du Grand Sablon

From 29 June till 1 July, the Place du Grand-Sablon [plan] also celebrates the Ommegang. On the square, during 3 days, crossbowmen, knights, tournaments,... are going to offer a journey to the Middle Ages for children and visitors. The tournament will also count for the World Equestrian Festival 2010.

ON THE AGENDA : Folklore. Ommegang 2012

ON THE AGENDA : Folklore. Plantation of the Meyboom