Photo by Daniel Leclercq.

Giants return to city of Ath on Aug. 23 to 26

CHIÈVRES, Belgium -- From Aug. 23 to 26, thousands of visitors gather in Ath to celebrate the famous Ducasse, which holds the distinction of being a UNESCO Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Goliath of Gath from the Bible and Gallic War hero Ambiorix of the Belgae come to life in Ath on the fourth weekend of August each year. The festival is a chance to see the famous giants, who have danced at the Ducasse d'Ath since the 15th century when it served as a celebration of the consecration of the local St. Julien Church.

The biblical story of David and Goliath is influential to this festival along with a mix of fairy tales and folklore. Giants in folklore are huge mythical beings, usually in humanlike form. Battles between giants and men are interpreted as a symbol of the triumph of good over evil.

A WEDDING

The event’s first main event is held on Friday night. The burning of the giant Goliath’s pants takes place around 10:30 p.m. It is a Belgian tradition that the groom’s friends burn a pair of his pants and host a huge party before the wedding.

Saturday starts at noon with the ringing of "Julienne," the great bell of the Church St. Julien. Goliath then takes his fiancé from the city hall to the St. Julien Church to be married at 3 p.m. Around 5 p.m., the newlyweds return to city hall where Goliath is confronted by David, always portrayed by a young boy. Goliath and he will provoke each other verbally through a dialogue called the Bonimée. David will hurl a stone from a sling at the giant. If David hits the giant, he wins the battle, and the city will have good luck for the next year.

A BIG PARADE

On Sunday, the big parade starts at 9:45 a.m. from the train station and processes through the city. The parade moves very slowly and when the procession gets to the end of the route, it turns around and follows the same route in reverse at 3 p.m. If you watch the whole parade in both directions, it would last until 5 p.m.

The parade features floats, marching bands, historical groups and giants.

Festivities will continue after the weekend. On Monday, giants roam the city in the morning with their carriers and receive donations of gratuity from the community. At 5 p.m., a hot air balloon parade takes flight on the Esplanade with the participation of the Royal Fanfare Union of Saint Martin.

There will also be a fireworks display on Sept. 8 at 9:15 p.m., the last highlight of the Ducasse.

THE FAMOUS PIE

If you plan to go to the city of giants during the festival, taste the famous masteilles pie. The special dessert is prepared only one time of the year, when the city allows giants to roam its streets. Ath's traditional masteilles pie is served after the battle between David and Goliath and can be found in local bakeries. Defining the taste is a bit illusive so it is best to taste it for yourself.

ROAD CLOSURES AND TRAFFIC

Ath is located just a few miles from Chièvres Air Base on Highway N56. Please be aware that some roads will be closed or guarded by the police. Information on road closures will be released by the city of Ath. Check the U.S. Army Garrison Benelux Facebook page during the week leading to the festival for road closure updates and other important festival information.

Don’t forget to remain vigilant when you are attending an event involving large crowds.

Story by USAG Benelux Public Affairs