Ducasse de Mons

The Ducasse de Mons, also known as the Doudou, is an exuberant annual festival held on Trinity Sunday in Mons, Belgium. Esteemed for its cultural significance, it has been recognized as one of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The festivities center around two primary events: the procession featuring the descent and ascent of Saint Waltrude’s Shrine, and the dramatic combat of Saint George, known as the Lumeçon.

The festival’s origins date back to the Middle Ages, specifically to 1349, when it began as a procession to combat the plague that had struck Mons. Today, the Doudou is a blend of rituals and events, including the descent of the shrine, a procession with the Car d’Or, and a symbolic battle between Saint George and a dragon. The entire celebration spans eight days, beginning on the Saturday before Trinity Sunday.

One of the highlights is the procession, during which participants carry the shrine through the streets, culminating in a challenging ascent up a steep, cobblestone street. The Lumeçon follows, an exhilarating reenactment of Saint George's battle against the dragon, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Spoiler alert: Saint George emerges victorious! In addition to these key events, the festival features concerts, military band performances, a lively street market, and even a children’s version of the dragon battle with a smaller and lighter dragon.

During the festival, the town center transforms into a pedestrian-friendly zone filled with people enjoying music, food, and beverages. The Ducasse de Mons is not merely a cultural and religious event; it is a vibrant celebration of history, tradition, and community spirit.