*Don’t get confused with the Ducasse de Mons or Doudou!
This event usually starts around March 25, and marks the return of the spring.
Known as one of the oldest events in Hainaut, it
has been able to keep the charm and traditional appeal of old times.
Every year (for more than 300 years) enormous
crowds invade the Messines area (around Rue Bertaimont) to preserve the
heritage.
The event has a religious origin. It was a large gathering of people
from a pilgrimage to Notre-Dame (etymologically, "Ducasse" comes from
"Dedication"). Soon, this place becomes a very important place of
pilgrimage. And miracles are recorded
in 1620.
Gradually, the pilgrimage loses its fervor but
external festivities grow. Cultural
activities are also growing. By March 1946, the festival takes place. Over the years, the program is
expanding.
From
Friday evening, Place Nervienne turned into a mini amusement park while marquee
tent placed in Rue Bertaimont with a small stage for the performances of local artists.
It can be quiet disturbing but funny in a same time to hear cover versions tribute
from ABBA to Michael Jackson for the whole weekend.
Saturday.. the busiest. There’s a giant flea market full of random stuff. From massive
collections of cd, household and toys, antiques etc. Kids became crafty with the flower bouquet-making contest. And the procession started at 3 pm to
honor Notre-Dame de Messines. Folklore perpetuated by the raising of the flag infront
of the church, by the induction of honorary citizens.
The parade would be the highlight of the event, with some giants enliven the festivities of the Ducasse. They are Batisse (the Father), Lalie (the Mother),
Trinette & Biloute (little ones) marched and danced along Place Nervienne
to the Grand Place accompanied by percussion bands with fun music.
Sunday felt so spring when colorful
flowers filled the large flower market around the area.
It also the
time we need to change into Daylight Saving Time (DST).