The Brussels Ommegang, a historical pageant in the centre of Brussels, is taking measures against the backdrop of intense heat today. Organisers promise extra points along the route where participants can obtain free water. The horses will exceptionally set out from the Zavel, where they can wait under trees providing shade before the procession starts.
The historic procession that ends on Brussels’ historic market square will take place on Wednesday 2 and Friday 4 July. With temperatures well above 30 degrees, Wednesday's edition in particular promises to be very tough for the many extras in historical costumes. ‘I have been one of the presenters on the market square for 10 years,’ says Bert Kruismans. 'Fortunately, after a word of welcome, I am soon allowed to retreat to the covered stand. It's still pretty hot in that historic costume. And I also wear a nice warm hat too. Drink lots of water and especially not too much alcohol. That's all you can do.'
'We can't use a small fan, because everything has to be historically accurate. We pretend it is 1549. We are re-enacting the Joyous Entry of Emperor Charles in Brussels. There are Federal Police horses escorting Emperor Charles. The extras along the way, including the Stilt walkers of Merchtem and the horses will have a tougher time. In the past it has already been pretty hot, it has rained during the Ommegang too, we will survive," Kruismans laughs.
Shorter route for the horses
The organisers are also well prepared. ‘We have ordered plenty of water,’ explains organiser Daniel Huybrechts. 'Normally we have one point along the way where we provide water for the participants, now there will be 2 or 3. We try to get the horses to Brussels as late as possible. Part of the route will be done without horses. They leave from the Zavel. There there are trees that provide shade and we can also provide water for the horses that have to draw the wagons more easily.'