GOUYASSE VESPERS & PROCESSION OF THE GIANTS (FAIR) - DUCASSE OF ATH

© Alex Kouprianoff

Address:

7800 ATH
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Tel.:+32 (0) 68 26 51 70

Booking :

Tel.:+32 (0) 68 26 51 70

This remarkable event takes place every 4th weekend of August. It dates back to the fifteenth century and presents the Giants of Ath to the public. One of these giants is no other than the renowned Gouyasse, (Goliath), King of the Festival. After having taken his pretty fiancée to the altar of St Julien's Church to get married, he fights the tiny David in the afternoon. After the battle, it is time for the tasting of the traditional "mastelles" tart - also known as "Gouyasse" (macaroon tart). The following day the spectacular traditional cortège will take place. A magnificent parade featuring the giants of the town in the company of floats and a multitude of different groups. A real crowd puller

Comment:

The Giants from Ath have been recognized as oral and intangible heritage of humanity by the UNESCO.
The big giants' procession will take place on Sunday 24 August at 9.45 am and 3 pm.

Other events are organised on the occasion of the Ducasse of Ath:
Friday 22/08: Tirant l'Ancien, GP archery, concert of Lariguette, burning of the marronnes of Gouyasse.
Saturday 23/08: Marriage of Goliath, concert, cannon of Mt-Sarah.
Sunday 24/08: Procession of the giants!
Monday 25/08: GP archery, animations, hot-air balloon festival.
Friday 29/08: big evening market.
Saturday 30/08: gypsy singing.
Sunday 31/08: gypsy singing.
Monday 08/09: GP balle pelote, concert, fireworks.

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