Colors of Kortrijk - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Locals have a very welcoming and hospitable attitude toward foreigners, they are always willing to talk with tourists who show interest in the national culture and history. However, there are a number of topics that aren’t recommended to rise. In any case the importance of certain historical events shouldn’t be called into question. Natives are proud of their history and insult any criticism. Family relationships, as well as issues related to parenting and personal life, are also out of question. On any other subject you can speak with citizens without fear, they are pleasant and interesting interlocutors.

It should be noted that natives themselves aren’t overly curious and they won’t ask improper questions; such displays are considered a sign of mauvais tone. Many tourists, who visit Kortrijk for the first time, compare this city with the typical French village. Indeed, the course of life of the Belgians and the French has quite a few similarities, but you shouldn’t concentrate on them. Locals also treat their culture with great respect and think that it is unique in every way.

One of the best ways to show respect for national traditions is to learn several phrases in Belgian. All locals speak with a particular accent, which, according to travelers, is quite contagious. It’s not worth to copy it, because this behavior is also considered inappropriate. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Residents of Kortrijk love to relax and to have fun; every national holiday is a truly unique celebration with its own traditions and customs. One of the oldest and most colorful national holidays is Easter Fair (Paasfoor). First it was held in early Middle Ages. The fair begins a few days before Easter and lasts for at least two weeks. Colourful stalls and cafes open virtually at all the streets of the city and Market Square becomes the center of celebration.

In addition to the tremendous sales and culinary activities, a variety of musical concerts and theatrical performances are held during the fair. Vacationers can visit art exhibitions; hundreds of attractions are available for children. In the evening, everyone gathers in the square to watch fireworks. Kortrijk will surprise travelers with a welcoming atmosphere and an abundance of interesting cultural events.

One of the city's most famous festivals is the event dedicated to hard genres of music called Alcatraz. Its headliners are well-known among metalheads and rockers local and foreign bands from Germany, Sweden, Norway delighting visitors with their hits every year. The two-day festival is held at the beginning of August, the venue is Sports Campus Lange Munte where one can set up camp and have a picnic freely. And this is another reason to attend the festival. Here you can listen to different styles of rock and metal - from thrash to power metal, from symphonic black metal to hard rock.

Of great interest to travelers is Sonic City held in early November. The event is dedicated to completely different music like jazz or techno. Among its participants are musical bands and performers coming from all over the world. Special attention is paid to local musicians. From one year to another, De Kreun Concert Hall has been the venue. No one will be bored here as musicians charge every visitor with their positive mood.

In early February, a quite unique event takes place in the city - namely, Fugare Pigeon Racing Fair. But more striking is the scale of the event: It lasts for two days, and it must be said that pigeon racing is just as exciting car racing. It is worth noting that bird breeding is a popular hobby among locals, as well as among those living in the neighboring countries - the Netherlands, France, Luxembourg. And therefore tourists from the above-mentioned regions often come here in order to witness the colorful show. The fair is held in Kortrijk Xpo trade and exhibition center.

The city hosts one more interesting exhibition - the one devoted to the most popular transport in Belgium - of course, this is about bicycles. Its name is Velofollies, and it is traditionally held in the same Kortrijk Xpo arena in mid-January. Here, visitors can discover new products from such famous brands as Stevens Bikes, Merida, Cannondale, Merck. Two-wheelers of all possible kinds - from electric to mountain bikes - are presented at the exhibition, so everyone will be able to choose the suitable one. In addition to the exhibition, experienced cyclists show all their skills jumping on a special platform.