Ducasse de Mons (also known as the Doudou Festival) is a traditional and vibrant annual festival held in Mons, Belgium. The event celebrates the town’s rich cultural and religious heritage, featuring a series of processions, performances, and historical reenactments. The highlight of the festival is the Lumeçon, a dramatic battle between Saint George and a dragon, which takes place in the main square. The festival is recognized as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage event and is a lively celebration filled with music, parades, and community gatherings, drawing visitors from around the world to experience the unique traditions of Mons.
DATES & TIMES
• Saturday, 30 May 2026 — Descente de la Châsse at the Collégiale Sainte‑Waudru, 20:00. Learn more here.
• Sunday, 31 May 2026 — Procession du Car d’Or starts 09:30 from Place du Chapitre; the traditional ascent of the Rampe Sainte‑Waudru follows at the end of the procession. Procession details · Visitor info.
• Sunday, 31 May 2026 — Combat dit Lumeçon on the Grand‑Place, 12:30. Time reference.
LOCATION
• Mons city centre — Collégiale Sainte‑Waudru for the shrine ceremonies and Grand‑Place for the Lumeçon; the Procession loops through the historic streets. Overview & route notes.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• The Ducasse rituelle is free to attend in public areas; crowd‑control zones and barriers are in place around the Grand‑Place for the Lumeçon. Updates.
• Accessibility arrangements (e.g., dedicated viewing for PMR) are announced by the city each year—check municipal channels close to the date. City updates.
GOOD TO KNOW
• UNESCO heritage: The Ducasse de Mons is recognised on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. About the designation.
• Crowds & comfort: Expect very large crowds on Sunday—arrive early for viewing spots; wear sturdy shoes, and follow steward guidance. During the Lumeçon, spectators try to grab “dragon hair” (good‑luck tails) from the dragon—stay clear if you don’t want to be in the scrum.
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