Belgium is a country famous for its chocolate, waffles, and beer. However, Belgium has so much more to offer than the world-famous cuisine. The country is full of rich cultural traditions, and its two main regions, Flanders and Wallonia, boast their unique set of traditions.
Starting with Flemish Fiestas, Flanders is a region known for its vibrant festivals. There are numerous festivals throughout the year such as the Carnaval de Binche, which is a UNESCO Intangible Heritage listed event. This festival is held every year before Ash Wednesday and is famous for its Gilles, men dressed in bright-colored costumes and masks. The Gilles walk the streets of Binche, distributing oranges to the crowd, and dancing to the sounds of lively drum music. Another festival that should not be missed is the Gentse Feesten, a ten-day festival in the city of Ghent. This festival dates back to the Middle Ages and is a celebration of street theater, music, and partying.
Moving over to Wallonia, the region has a unique cultural tradition worth mentioning. Walloon Wonders refer to the region’s magnificent fairs, which originated in the 19th century. These fairs traveled from town to town, and today they are an essential part of the region’s social life. Walloon Wonders consist of a combination of fairground games, rides, and food stalls. The biggest of them all, the Foire de Liège, takes place in the city of Liège every year in October. The fair attracts millions of visitors, and it’s a celebration of life’s simple pleasures.
Belgium’s cultural traditions are not limited to festivals and fairs. The country has its unique customs and practices that are worth experiencing. For example, the process of beer brewing has been a Belgian tradition for centuries. Belgium has over 2,000 breweries, ranging from large industrial breweries to small family-run breweries. The breweries produce a wide variety of beers, including Trappist beers that are only made in Belgium, which adds to the cultural richness of the country. Another tradition unique to Belgium is its comics. Belgium has produced some of the most famous comic book characters such as Tintin and the Smurfs.
In conclusion, Belgium has a lot more to offer than its famous food and beverages. The country’s cultural traditions are a testament to its rich history and diverse regions. Flemish Fiestas and Walloon Wonders are just a glimpse into the country’s vibrant festivals, but there are many more unique traditions worth experiencing in Belgium. By immersing oneself in Belgian culture, one can truly appreciate the country’s beauty and diversity.
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