Ath may be a small town, but it has a BIG claim to fame: it’s Procession of the Giants.
This comprises a series of parades on the fourth weekend of August, starring the seven giants with biblical and folkloric connotations, including the best known of them all, ‘Gouyasse’ (Goliath). This infamous colossus has his giant-sized trousers ceremonially burnt on the Friday night of the festival, gets married on the Saturday and then finally fights his tiny nemesis David on the Sunday.
After the battle, it’s time for live music and the tasting of the traditional "mastelles" - a macaroon and almond tart (also known as “Gouyasse" after the big man himself), before the weekend culminates in a hot air balloon festival.
The festival in Ath, long known as “The City of Giants”, dates back as far as the 15th century, but if you miss the big weekend you can learn more year-round at the Maison des Géants, a grand old mansion dedicated to the tall tales which have infused this old town for generations.
WHEN: Friday 22 August to Monday 25 August 2025
WHEN: Friday 22 August to Monday 25 August 2025
WHERE: 7800 Ath
MORE INFORMATION: Visit online
CONTACT: office.de.tourisme@ath.be or +32 68 26 51 70
Information provided by SHAPE HIVE