For many people in Ghent the ‘Ghent Festivities’ have been a staple activity during the summer holidays since as long as they can remember. On the 11th of July 1914 the ‘Gemeentefeest’ or ‘Fête Communale’ was kick-started as usual by the giant bells of the belfry tower. Back in the day the festivities were already varied and plentiful. The people could enjoy several processions, exhibitions, concerts, plays, horse racing, fireworks… and the much appreciated ball on the Kouter square.

After 1914 the Festivities would not take place for a while. The Festivities could not be held for several years because of the outbreak of the war with Germany only a month later.