In a dashboard you can consult the current parking occupancy of bicycle and car parkings as well as P+Rs.
The Ghent Festivities are traditionally heralded with the bells of the Belfry from 1843. These original celebrations consisted of a combination of festivities for the bourgeoisie and for the common people. The citizens could enjoy horse races and various evening parties.
"It's too much for one night. The clock is ticking and it's a long hunt to get hold of those hotel rooms."
Today, the Gentse Feesten are among the largest folk festivals in Europe and are recognized as Flemish intangible heritage. This year they will take place from 14 to 23 July 2023. During these festivities, the city center of Ghent, with its squares, streets and parks, will become a stage for various performances. Performers ranging from nationally known figures to the humblest buskers make their contribution.
Heads up for talent
More than 100 street artists bring color and life to the Gentse Feesten. Their skills, talents and unique performances give visitors a special experience. And often these artists offer something you can't find on a stage or in a theater, they bring art and entertainment directly to the people on the street.
They usually operate on a 'hat' or 'cap' principle, meaning that they derive their income from the donations they receive from the public. This is a very old way of street performance, and it gives the spectator the freedom to pay what they can, or what they think the performance is worth. So if you see a cool act, show your appreciation and donate something. You can leave a few coins in the hat or make a free contribution via a QR code.
It is a hard life, and it requires a lot of courage, talent and perseverance. Therefore, these artists certainly deserve our appreciation and support. If you have the chance to go to a festival like the Gentse Feesten, don't forget to throw some coins in their hats or caps as a token of appreciation for their efforts and hard work.
program
The renowned Walter De Buckplein, possibly the most recognizable square of the Gentse Feesten, presents a fantastic program. Stef Kamil Carlens, a versatile artist as a visual artist, singer, musician, composer and producer, will open the party on this square. Under the guidance of Wim Claeys, you can make your voice heard during the daily singing session with the most popular Ghent songs by Walter De Buck, Karel Waeri and others.
Musical performances, dance and festivities permeate every corner of Ghent's city centre. The strong bond between the Gentse Feesten and Vlaanderen Zingt is clearly visible here. On Sunday, July 16, 2023, everyone on site will be offered a song newspaper with the lyrics, after which Sint-Baafsplein will buzz with enthusiasm when everyone sings along with a series of well-known songs.
On the national holiday, July 21, and during the Ghent Festivities, a special tradition is honored. Since 1973, the Guild of Noose Carriers has held an annual tour commemorating the humiliation by Charles V. The fear has been replaced by a self-willed pride and for the 49th time the noose bearers re-enact the penitential procession of May 3, 1540.
The Gentse Feesten offer an impressive program full of fun for all ages. Whether you like the fairground attractions such as duck fishing, hanging upside down in the revolving mill, feasting on donuts, screaming in the haunted house or driving bumper cars, there is something for everyone to do. 'Mama's Jasje', the successful band that has been scoring hit after hit for more than 30 years with songs like 'Als de dag van daten' and 'So far away', will enter every stage with their motto 'Ni Zievere, Speile!'. The popular 21-year-old actress and singer Pommelien Thijs will also be present. The parties are fittingly closed by the band Arbeid Adelt.
Pole Pole
An indispensable part of the Gentse Feesten. Polé Polé is one of the most famous and beloved events during the Gentse Feesten, and it's not hard to understand why. This exotic music and culture festival takes place on the Graslei and Korenlei, where the historic facades and the rippling water of the Leie form the perfect backdrop for this colorful celebration.
The festival is known for its unique, festive atmosphere and brings a mix of world music, pop and electronic music to Ghent's city center. Polé Polé, which means 'take it easy' in Swahili, is anything but calm. It is a lively meeting place where music, dance and culture come together and where you can enjoy exotic drinks and international street food.
De Programming from Polé Polé is always diverse and of high quality. The festival attracts both local and international artists to Ghent. Whether you want to dance to the infectious beats of an African DJ, sing along with a reggae artist or enjoy the energetic performance of a Latin American band, Polé Polé has it all.
The clock is ticking and the hunt is on hotel rooms is opened. For a period of ten days, Polé Polé brings a southern and sultry atmosphere to the center of Ghent, with a stage on the water that forms the center of the festivities. If you would like to stay in the heart of the party, it is advisable to book a hotel room in or near the party zone. The program offers both free and paid activities.
strict entry requirements
There are strict access requirements and emission standards in force in Ghent. Whether you are allowed to enter the city center depends on the Euro standard and the fuel type of your vehicle. Only vehicles that meet these conditions are allowed access to this zone. The most polluting diesel and petrol vehicles are excluded from this area.
Rigorous admission criteria and emission standards apply within the low-emission zone in Ghent. Your vehicle's ability to enter the inner city is determined by the Euro standard and the type of fuel it uses. Only vehicles that meet the requirements gain access to this zone. The most polluting diesel and petrol vehicles are banned from this zone.
Park
In dit dashboard you can consult the current parking occupancy of bicycle and car parkings as well as P+Rs. The locations of car parks for which current data cannot yet be shared are also indicated on this map.
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