Every year, on the fourth weekend of August, Giants of Ath festival (De Ducasse) is held in the ancient center of Ath (located south west to Brussels). These traditional fiestas, originated in the Middle Ages, turn the city from a quite sleepy city to a lively and exited. The preparations for the folklore fiesta, building giant dolls, last for several months.
The motive of the festival is the struggle between David and Goliath. On Saturday, after the wedding ceremony of Goliath, the battle between the giant and the shepherd youngster takes place. After the vespers of Saturday, it is tradition to eat a cake named Masteilles which is unique to the city.
On Sunday, the festival reaches its climax with a parade of giant dolls, floats, dance groups and bands.
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