Ommegang

Name: Ommegang
Start: 2025-07-01
End: 2025-07-02
Location: Brussels

Brussels’ Majestic Historical Pageant That Revives the Middle Ages

2025/07/01 - 2025/07/02

Every summer, Brussels’ Grand Place becomes the stage for Ommegang, a festival registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Over two spectacular evenings, the city is filled with the grandeur and pride of the Middle Ages, as a magnificent parade, music, and vibrant costumes recreate Emperor Charles V’s triumphant entry. Thousands become part of living history, making it a must-see for history lovers, fans of grand European traditions, and anyone seeking a feast for the senses.

The clang of armor, the aroma of roasted nuts and spices, and the flicker of torchlight illuminating cobblestones and historic buildings—all combine to create a magical scene. Ommegang is not just a show, but a “living tradition” that invites everyone to step into the story of Brussels.

Main Attractions

The Grand Ommegang Parade

The main highlight is the grand parade, with about 1,400 participants in authentic historical costumes. It reenacts the 1549 entry of Charles V and his son Philip II into Brussels, featuring knights, noble ladies, falconers, musicians, and dancers. The sound of drums and trumpets, the gleam of armor, and colorful banners transform the square into a medieval celebration.

Key Events

Beyond the parade, there are medieval tournaments, falconry demonstrations, and street performances. In the nearby Sablon district, the “Ommegang Village” offers archery, crafts, and traditional games for families. At night, the Grand Place hosts a sound and light show, with historic buildings dramatically illuminated in sync with music—a truly enchanting experience.

Costumes and Decorations

Luxurious velvet, embroidery, feathered hats, and shining armor evoke the Renaissance era. The Grand Place is decorated with banners, flags, and torches, while the scents of hay, flowers, and grilled meats mingle in the air. The heavy texture of the costumes and the collective energy of hundreds of performers create an overwhelming, immersive atmosphere.

Traditional Food & Drink

Food stalls offer Belgian classics like crispy frites, grilled sausages, waffles, and local beer. You can also enjoy medieval-style spiced nuts, honey cakes, and mulled wine. The sweet, savory, and spicy aromas drifting through the square make eating and drinking a true part of the festival experience.

Cultural and Historical Background

The origins of Ommegang date back to the mid-14th century, when a statue of the Virgin Mary was enshrined at Notre-Dame du Sablon Church in Brussels. According to legend, Beatrice Soetkens brought the statue, and a religious procession called “Ommegang” (“to walk around” in old Dutch) began to honor this miracle. The event became rooted as a pilgrimage and major religious and civic celebration, with local guilds like the archers joining in.

In 1549, when Holy Roman Emperor Charles V and his son Philip II made an official visit to Brussels, the city expanded this traditional procession into a grand welcome ceremony. Citizens, guilds, and nobles staged a magnificent parade for the imperial party—an event that became the prototype for today’s Ommegang.

After a period of decline in the 18th century, Ommegang was revived in 1930 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Belgian independence. Since then, it has become Brussels’ largest historical festival, held every summer. Today, around 1,400 performers participate in authentic costumes, with real Belgian nobles playing noble roles, blending historical realism with a festive, community spirit.

In 2019, Ommegang was officially inscribed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, recognized worldwide as a symbol of Brussels’ pride, community unity, and European historical culture.

Participant Voices

“Watching the parade from the Grand Place balcony felt like stepping into a historical painting. The costumes, music, and torchlight were truly magical. I spoke with a local performer whose family has participated for three generations, and their pride was palpable.”

Fun Facts

The Ommegang parade reenacts the entry of Charles V, one of the most powerful rulers in European history.
“Ommegang” means “to walk around” in old Dutch.
The Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Festival Dates

Ommegang is held every year in early July at Brussels’ Grand Place and the Sablon district. For the latest dates and details, check the official website.