Doudou - Belgian

Hello! My name is the Ducasse de Mons, but in the city of Mons, Belgium, most people know me by my nickname, the Doudou. I am a festival with a very long history, and people have gathered to observe me every year for centuries. My story begins back in the 14th century. This was a difficult time in Europe, and the people of Mons looked for ways to find hope and strengthen their community. My traditions grew from their desire to come together and honor their city's history and beliefs.

One of my oldest and most important traditions is a solemn procession. The first time it took place was in the year 1349. At that time, a dangerous sickness known as the Black Plague was spreading across the continent, and the people of Mons were afraid. To ask for protection, they organized a parade through the city. During this procession, they carried the relics, or sacred items, belonging to Saint Waltrude, who is the patron saint of Mons. According to the city's history, the plague ended soon after. The people believed their prayers had been answered, and the procession became an annual act of gratitude and remembrance.

Every year on Trinity Sunday, this tradition continues. A magnificent golden chariot, called the Car d'Or, is brought out. Inside, the shrine containing the relics of Saint Waltrude is carefully placed. The chariot is incredibly heavy, and it takes the strength of thousands of people, along with draft horses, to pull it up a steep, cobblestone street. It is a powerful moment that brings together the whole community, connecting the people of today with the events of so long ago.

While the procession is a serious event, my most famous part is a lively and dramatic reenactment. This performance is called the 'Lumeçon,' a name that comes from an old local word for a mock battle. This part of my celebration was added around the year 1380, just a few decades after the first procession. It takes place in the Grand-Place, the city’s main square, and it tells a timeless story that people all over the world can understand: the battle between good and evil.

The Lumeçon is filled with colorful characters who act out this ancient tale. The hero of the story is Saint George, a brave figure who represents good. His opponent is a massive green dragon, representing evil. But Saint George does not fight alone. He is helped by characters called 'Chinchins.' These figures are meant to represent dogs, and they playfully assist Saint George in his struggle against the fearsome beast. Together, they create a thrilling spectacle for the crowds that fill the square.

The dragon is a huge construction, operated by people from inside. It has a very long tail made from real horsehair. During the chaotic and exciting battle, people in the crowd surge forward, trying to grab a single strand of hair from the dragon’s sweeping tail. There is a popular belief that anyone who succeeds in pulling out a hair will have good luck for the entire year. This makes the Lumeçon an interactive performance where the audience becomes part of the action, sharing in the symbolic victory of good.

Today, my events span an entire week. The procession and the Lumeçon are the central moments, but they are surrounded by concerts, parades, and many other festivities for families and visitors. My traditions have been passed down through many generations. In 2005, my historical and cultural importance was officially recognized when UNESCO named me a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. This honor helps protect my unique customs for the future. Each year, people travel from all over Belgium and the world to visit Mons and share in my one-of-a-kind history and joyful celebrations.