What are the traditions in this country that I need to be aware of?
Belgium
English
Adult headaches

National holidays in Belgium are:

  • January 1st (New Year's Day),
  • Easter Monday (first Monday after first full moon in Spring),
  • May 1st  (Labour Day),
  • Ascension Day (40 days after Easter) ,
  • Pentecost Monday (Monday 50 days after Easter),
  • 21 July (National Day),
  • 15 August (Assumption of the Holy Virgin),
  • 1 November (All Saints' Day),
  • 11 November (Armistice of 1918)
  • December 25 (Christmas).

 

December 6th is a traditional day in Belgium, people celebrate what is called “La saint nicolas”, children wake up to find all sorts of gifts and candies in the house. Parent tell them that Saint Nicolas brought gift during the night to congratulate good children.

 

During february and march a lot of “carnaval” are organised, it’s parade where people dress up and walk around town.

 

One of the most famous one is in Binche. http://www.carnavaldebinche.be/

 

In summer, Kermesses are organized in many cities, festive events with lots of activities for children, carousels, duck fishing, bumper cars,  etc.

Flea markets: take place everywhere throughout the year, allows you to buy items at a lower price (http://www.brocantes.be/fr/agenda/province/Toute_la_Belgique/Tous_les_evenements)

 

For more information on culture visit:

French-speaking community: http://www.culture.be/

Flemish community: https://cjsm.be/cultuur/

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