Les Feux de la Saint-Jean

The Bonfires of Saint John is the result of solar festivals, dating back to ancient civilizations. 
Traditionally accompanied by great fires, it usually lit around June 24, close to the symbolic date of the summer solstice in the northern hemisphere. The fire was said to represent the sun, heat and light. Celebration is for the return of fertility because the light and warmth believed to bring good fortune to harvest. 

In Mons, until 1822 it was celebrated by lighting fires in every neighbourhood. There’s no complete historical research has been done, only a few articles were written about it. In the morning of the feast, children went from house to house demanding wood for the fire. The fire was lit and accompanied by a rooster cage and each fireplaces are fueled by wood harvested by children. During the celebration, young men and women danced and sang around the bonfires. There’s also a singing contest with a live rooster as the prize. The street where the festival was celebrated decorated with garlands. 

The formula has changed since 1990. And from 2009 two days devoted to this event.
Beside the living tradition that is rooted, the event becomes a festival of cultures and ideas.

On Saturday afternoon the celebration begins.
Along Grand Place and the shopping street enlivened by street musicians, while a group of people dance joyfully.



Place Nervienne filled with activities. 
Kids can choose to play twister or ride a pony or even learn how to do magic tricks and acrobatic moves. 
Their faces painted with smile and colors.
Food and drink stalls around the adjoining casemates (former military depots) ready to serve everyone.



A ceremony show takes place at the Grand Place involving hundreds of extras and musicians.
More music and dancing.
Alphorns buzzing from the town hall’s balcony and shadow of some dancers seen on the green backlight windows. A local singer lifted to the air using a hydraulic stage. It was a beautiful solo performance and so striking.




When it gets darker, firing transhumance followed by a grand torchlight procession led by drummers toured the city, from the Grand Place to Place Nervienne. This is the largest torchlight procession in Belgium!
Thousands of people bring their own torches and bells as symbols of transhumance.
And yes.. I saw a caged rooster that carried along the route.  


At 11 pm, the fire ignition takes place at Place Nervienne.
The firing of a bonfire is such a unique sensation with the crowds encircle the fire and the final music bands took the stage until the fire goes out.


It’s such a wonderful experience watching the lights of joy.
People laugh and dance around the bonfire.
It feels so warm.
Long live the summer!