Origins & the 1969 Revival

A city festival since 1843, faded and stuffy by its 125th year — until 1969, when the Ghent singer and sculptor Walter De Buck, his then-wife Paula Monsart and the people of Café Trefpunt restarted it as one stage by the Saint James’ church. Rebellious, anarchic, free.

Part of Gentse Feesten

2 moments in this segment.

1. 1843 — The first Gentse Feesten (1843). The earliest Ghent festivities, in 1843 — horse races, folk games and balls meant to bring the city’s bourgeoisie and workers together. About 400 people came. The festival ran on into the 20th century before fading.
2. 2018-07-13 — Speakers Corner juni 2018: Gentse Feesten 175 jaar jong. Fiestje!. News and archival coverage of the Gentse Feesten (2018).