Mons

🎭 Activities

Doudou Festival – June: The Doudou Festival, held annually in June, celebrates the city’s unique heritage, with the main event being the procession of Saint George. It’s an exciting mix of religious traditions, colorful parades, and medieval reenactments, attracting visitors from around the world. 

Mons International Film Festival – March: The Mons International Film Festival, held in March, showcases a diverse selection of international cinema, with a focus on new films and emerging filmmakers. It’s a great opportunity to discover new talent and immerse in global storytelling. 

Festival of the Dragon – May: The Festival of the Dragon in May celebrates the legend of Saint George and the Dragon with a spectacular parade. Locals dress up, and the streets of Mons come alive with fiery performances and themed events, honoring one of the city’s most famous legends. 

Christmas Market – December: Mons’ Christmas Market, open throughout December, turns the city center into a winter wonderland. Visitors can explore dozens of festive stalls offering handmade crafts, local treats, and mulled wine, alongside spectacular light displays. 

Noël en Lumières – December: In December, the Noël en Lumières event transforms the city’s main squares and streets with magical light installations. It’s a free event where visitors can enjoy an illuminated walk through the city, capturing the festive spirit of Mons. 

Heritage Days – September: Heritage Days, held in September, allow visitors to explore parts of Mons that are normally off-limits. From private palaces to ancient churches, the event showcases the city’s rich history and invites guests to discover its hidden treasures. 

Plein Air Concerts – July: In July, the city organizes Plein Air Concerts in the city’s public parks and squares. These free performances feature local and international musicians playing everything from jazz to classical music, offering a relaxing way to experience the local culture. 

Festival of Contemporary Art – April: Held every April, the Festival of Contemporary Art showcases installations, performances, and exhibits from both local and international artists. The festival takes over various public spaces, turning the city into a vibrant gallery of modern creativity. 

Le Parc Naturel des Hauts-Pays – May: For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Parc Naturel des Hauts-Pays in May is a must. This natural park, just outside Mons, offers scenic hiking trails, biodiversity, and beautiful landscapes, making it perfect for a springtime outdoor escape. 

Misteria Festival – October: Misteria, held in October, focuses on mystery and thriller films, along with dark performances. The festival is a spooky celebration of all things macabre, with screenings, workshops, and themed events scattered throughout the city. 

Père Noël’s Arrival Parade – December: At the start of December, the Père Noël’s Arrival Parade kicks off the holiday season. The parade features festive floats, musicians, and characters from popular Christmas stories, marking the official start of the Christmas celebrations in the city. 

Sculpture Biennial – September: The Sculpture Biennial in September invites visitors to explore installations and sculptures placed in public spaces throughout the city. The event brings together international sculptors, showcasing the cutting edge of contemporary art in a unique urban setting.

🔹 Small Facts

The Doudou Tradition: The Doudou Festival celebrates a centuries-old tradition unique to Mons. The event commemorates the legend of Saint George and the Dragon, and the procession of Saint George, a key part of the festival, has been recognized by UNESCO as part of the world’s intangible heritage. 

Historic Center of Mons: Mons has one of the best-preserved historic centers in Belgium, with architecture that dates back to medieval times. The charming streets, squares, and buildings offer a rich cultural experience and a glimpse into the city’s past. 

The Belfry of Mons: The Belfry of Mons is one of the oldest in Belgium, originally constructed in the 12th century. It stands as a testament to the city’s prosperity and importance during the medieval period and is an iconic landmark in the city center. 

The Role of Mons in World War I: Mons was the site of the first major battle between the British Expeditionary Force and the German Army during World War I. The Battle of Mons marked the beginning of the Western Front and holds a significant place in the history of both Belgium and the UK. 

Van Gogh’s Connection to Mons: Vincent van Gogh lived in Mons for a short period while working as a preacher in the nearby town of Cuesmes. It was during his time here that he first became interested in art, a period that laid the groundwork for his future career as a painter. 

The Saint Waudru Collegiate Church: Saint Waudru’s Collegiate Church in Mons is not only a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, but it also houses the relics of Saint Waudru, the city’s patron saint. The church is a key symbol of the religious and cultural heritage of Mons. 

The First Belgian Railway: Mons was the starting point of the first Belgian railway line, which opened in 1835. This early railway system played a crucial role in the industrial development of the region and the expansion of Belgium’s transportation infrastructure. 

Mons and the Mining Industry: The mining industry played a pivotal role in Mons’ economy from the 19th century until the early 20th century. The region was known for its coal mines, which were a major source of income and employment for the local population. 

The Mons Canal: The Mons Canal, built in the early 19th century, helped establish Mons as an important trade hub. It connected the city to other parts of Belgium and Europe, facilitating the transportation of goods like coal and textiles. 

The University of Mons: The University of Mons (UMons) is one of the city’s most prominent institutions, offering a wide range of academic programs. Founded in the 19th century, the university contributes to the city’s cultural and intellectual vibrancy. 

The History of the Grand Place: The Grand Place of Mons, the city’s central square, has been the heart of the city for centuries. It has witnessed countless historical events, from market days to celebrations, and is still the location of key cultural activities today. 

Mons and the Art Nouveau Movement: While Brussels and Antwerp are more commonly associated with the Art Nouveau movement, Mons also has several buildings that showcase this architectural style. Some private residences and public buildings in the city feature the characteristic flowing, organic forms typical of Art Nouveau design. 

The Oldest Theater in Belgium: The Théâtre Royal de Mons, which dates back to the 18th century, is considered the oldest theater in Belgium. The theater has been the cultural heart of the city for centuries, hosting performances ranging from opera to contemporary theater. 

The “Tertre de la Dame Blanche” Legend: Mons is home to the Tertre de la Dame Blanche, an ancient hilltop that is steeped in local legend. The site is associated with stories of a white lady ghost, believed to protect the city from harm, and offers stunning views over the surrounding area. 

Cultural Significance of the Doudou Procession: The Doudou Procession, held annually in June, has deep cultural significance for the people of Mons. The event brings together locals and visitors to celebrate their shared history and folklore, symbolizing the unity and identity of the community.