Kermesse de Tournai - Grande Procession & 4 Cortèges
Bijna duizendjarige processie (sinds 1092) plus vier cortèges met reuzen, braderie en guinguette.
Promote Tournai's millennium-old procession and carnival festivities as a heritage tourism draw for European travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences.
- Nearly 1,000 years of tradition: discover Tournai's iconic Grande Procession dating back to 1092
- Four spectacular cortèges with giant figures, street markets, and open-air dining—a full cultural festival experience
- Plan your pilgrimage: heritage tourism meets carnival celebration in Belgium's historic Kermesse de Tournai
Kermesse de Tournai takes place during the 2nd weekend of September (11–14 September 2026) over 4 days, featuring the historic Grande Procession, 4 Cortèges, the Knights' Council ceremony, and the annual street market . This unmissable cultural event showcases Tournai's historical riches and secular and religious traditions through a festive, welcoming atmosphere . It is championed by the City and numerous Tournai associations committed to celebrating heritage and perpetuating age-old popular and religious customs . City-wide festival for all audiences; local families, heritage enthusiasts, and regional/international visitors; estimated tens of thousands of attendees
Friday 11 September 2026
Opening of the Kermesse festivities; Heritage Days activities; preparatory evening events
Saturday 12 September 2026
Pontifical mass at 6:00 pm in Cathedral; Mayor hands keys of city to Bishop in ceremonial tradition
Sunday 13 September 2026
Pontifical mass at 8:30 am; Grande Procession departs at 10:00 am ; Office and procession procession starting at 10am from the cathedral ; 4 Cortèges afternoon parade; Knights' Council intronisation ceremony
Monday 14 September 2026
Traditional Braderie (flea market) in city centre, 9am–6pm
- 1. Grande Procession: over 70 costumed groups and 1,000 participants featuring 19 musical ensembles and historic groups, displaying medieval church treasures and ornate reliquaries