Hasselt (The Brussels Morning Newspaper): The Virga Jesse celebrations in Hasselt, Belgium are a significant traditional event held every seven years, featuring processions, cultural activities and community gatherings that honor the Virgin Mary and bring people together.
On 25th August at sunday evening, the city center of Hasselt after a prayer service at the basilica, a long table was set up on Koning Albertstraat and Demerstraat to celebrate the end of the Virga Jesse festivities with delicious food. Luc Smeets from the Virga Jesse committee explained that this tradition, once known as the feast of the surplus is an important way to wrap up the celebrations. They prepared for about 500 to 1,000 people serving sandwiches and raising glasses to toast the past weeks. It has been said that it was a great opportunity for people to talk about the events catch up with each other, meet new friends and express gratitude to all the participants and volunteers.
What makes the Virga Jesse celebrations in Hasselt so special and meaningful for the community?
Netty and her neighbors took part in a special event called “the longest table” during a big celebration. Netty and her group of four were excited to join in many activities. Each activity was different some were well-organized, some were touching and others were fun. Each event added something special to the celebration making it enjoyable. After experiencing all the activities, Netty and her neighbors felt that sitting at “the longest table” was the best way to end the celebrations. They mentioned that it was a meaningful way to show community, togetherness and shared moments, reflecting the fun they had together.
The Virga Jesse celebrations are a significant traditional event in Hasselt that greatly impacts the community. Luc Smeets from the Virga Jesse Committee described it as an “explosion of good things,” highlighting how positive these celebrations are for the city and its people. They happen every seven years and are linked to the city’s religious and cultural history. The events include processions, cultural activities,and community gatherings that honor the Virgin Mary as Virga Jesse. Luc Smeets noted that the celebrations spread goodwill, unity,and joy bringing people together and strengthening community ties while also boosting the local economy by attracting visitors and supporting businesses. These celebrations respect a long-standing tradition and enhance the lives of everyone involved.
Irène mentioned that the Virga Jesse celebration only happens once every seven years. She was impressed by the long tables with flowers leading to the basilica and thought they wouldn’t be filled, but they were. She found the atmosphere cozy and enjoyed the joyful feeling. Around 100,000 people attended the festivities in Hasselt and even with heavy rain, 22,000 people showed up for the procession. The events outside the procession brought in 5,000 people each evening making the city lively and creating a strong sense of community. It has been said that the celebrations brought a lot of positive energy, and the next Virga Jesse Festival will be in 2031.
