I n t e r i o r s & A r c h i t e c t u r e
I n t e r i o r s & A r c h i t e c t u r e
G e n t s e F e e s t e n
Gent festivities are among the largest folk festivals in Europe. The first edition was held in 1843, when the city council decided to combine all the celebrations of the merchants' and entrepreneurs' associations into a general fair.
The festival takes place over ten days which always includes July 21st, a national holiday in Belgium.
For the occasion, the whole city center turns into a pedestrian area dedicated to entertainment and concerts.
The streets are full of musicians while in the park the people dance.
Acrobats, jugglers and artists of all kinds perform for the public.
A distinctive element of the festival is the noose (de strop), a symbol of the pride of the citizens of Ghent, as in 1540 the inhabitants were forced to wear it for rebelling against Emperor Charles V.
Another constant presence is the pink elephant, emblem of the beer, produced near Ghent, sponsor of the fest.
One of the basic components for the celebrations is in fact beer, Belgian pride.
The Gentse Feesten offer an extensive program that attracts adults and children.