Ommegang 1930
Drawing Thomas Liera | Script Patrick Weber | Colors Cerise
Joint publication by Éditions Anspach and Ommegang asbl (non-profit association)
Thomas Liera, a renowned Belgian illustrator, signs this year’s official Ommegang comic strip, written by the historian, scriptwriter, journalist and author Patrick Weber.
Discover the Ommegang in a different way
Summary:
Brussels, 1930. After an absence of 145 years, enthusiasts worked to resurrect the Ommegang parade, a symbol of Belgian history. But while the final preparations were in full swing, a participant was killed by a crossbow bolt in the middle of a rehearsal.
Stan Stanislas, a journalist with Le Patriote Belge, immediately took up the case. As he tried to solve the murder, the sabotage continued. It gradually became clear that a group of conspirators was trying to disrupt the Ommegang and, possibly maybe even to destabilize Belgium.
Who was pulling the strings behind this plot? Why did this innocent historical celebration unleash such violence? Stan and his friends would have to confront a devious threat whose objective could have been much greater than simply the cancellation of the parade…
- During the days of the Ommegang festivity, this book will be on sale in bookshops and in the Grand-Place on Ommegang days
- Recommended retail price: €16
The Ommegang is invited to the World Expo 2025 Osaka
September 11 to 14, 2025
On the occasion of the World Expo in Osaka 2025, an exceptional delegation from the Ommegang will be on hand to showcase the history and traditions of Brussels to the world. Visitors will have the privilege of discovering this emblematic moment of Brussels folklore during the Fair’s Brussels Days on September 11 and 12, as well as during the Belgian Day on September 14.
The Ommegang, classified as a UNESCO world heritage site, is one of Belgium’s greatest historical celebrations. In Osaka, spectators will be able to admire our performances, which will bring to life the spirit of the Ommegang by evoking some of its most outstanding figures: Emperor Charles V, then aged 49 and at the height of his power in 1549, and his son, the Infante Philip, future King Philip II of Spain. They will be accompanied by representatives of the Order of the Golden Fleece, a prestigious order founded in Bruges in 1430, a symbol of loyalty and excellence among European nobility.
Among the entertainment on offer: flag throwers with their impressive banner displays, music from the period, Brussels stilt-walkers and their traditional spectacular combat, and the Emperor’s Fool, a faithful companion of the procession, ready to entertain young and old alike.
This is a unique opportunity to showcase the history, culture and popular traditions of Brussels in an international setting. The Ommegang in Osaka is an invitation to immerse yourself in Belgium’s living heritage, to enjoy a few festive and memorable moments.
- Brussels Days: September 11 and 12, 2025
- Belgian Day: September 14, 2025
Haacht Brewery and the Ommegang Beer
The Ommegang is proud to present its own beer, another strong symbol of Belgian know-how. This blond beer was created to emphasise the close link between Haacht Brewery’s Charles Quint beers and the Brussels’ Ommegang.
It contains 8% alcohol, is brewed with light barley and is composed of three different types of hops. Its dry, robust character appeals to both connoisseurs of special beers and fans of pilsner beers.
It is characterized by a citrus aroma, followed by a spicy floral taste and a complex, refined bitterness at the finish.
The Jacques Brel Show
July 3 on the Grand-Place in Brussels
Olivier Laurent takes you on an unforgettable journey into the world of Jacques Brel.
In “Brel! Le Spectacle”, Olivier Laurent pays a moving tribute to Jacques Brel, leaving an unforgettable impression, under the direction of Directo Prod and Publi-Market.
So much more than a concert, it is a vibrant immersion into the very soul of the great Jacques. Olivier Laurent does not imitate him: he becomes Brel, bringing his songs to life with an extraordinary intensity and powerful emotions.
Accompanied by four exceptional musicians, he will carry you away in a whirlwind of feelings, from the ardour of La Valse à Mille Temps to the heart-rending depth of Voir Un Ami Pleurer. He has already performed to tear-stricken audiences in Paris, Montreal, New York and Dubai; this show is finally being brought to Brussels, Jacques Brel’s hometown. A poignant tribute to love and poetry, an unforgettable performance, and a must-see event bringing Brel back to life… on the most beautiful square in the world.
- Grand-Place, Brussels, Thursday, July 3, 2025
- Doors open 8:00 p.m. - Show: 9:00 p.m.
- Tickets: www.ticketmaster.be
Ommegang exports our culture
The Ommegang has had the honor of representing Belgium at several major World Fairs: Shanghai in 2010, Milan in 2015 and Dubai in 2020. Each time, our historical procession has captivated visitors from all over the world, thanks to the richness of its costumes, the precision of its re-enactments and the unique atmosphere it exudes.
These international events are a valuable opportunity to showcase Belgian folklore at its best. The Ommegang, with its hundreds of participants and scenes inspired by our history, embodies a living heritage that arouses curiosity and admiration far beyond our borders.
Being present on the world stage also means affirming that our traditions have their place in today’s world. They tell of an identity, a heritage, but also a desire to pass on and share.
By taking part in these major exhibitions, Ommegang is helping to promote Brussels and Belgium abroad, highlighting the richness and vitality of our popular culture.
