Historic Tervuren once again marked the arrival of May with its annual Meiboom planting, a festive tradition believed to date back to 1457 — and quite possibly earlier. The town was also filled with the sound of heartening folk songs performed by a Ukrainian women’s choir.
On Thursday 1 May, locals gathered behind the Sint-Janskerk church square for the celebration, steeped in centuries-old folklore. Proceedings began at 3pm with a colourful procession, as a tall birch tree — decorated with bright ribbons — was carried through the streets by young members of Scouts Tervuren and KSA Tervuren, accompanied by traditional fanfare music.
Once planted in front of the church, the Maypole formed the centrepiece for community dances, flag-waving displays and old songs.
“We’re continuing a tradition whose roots stretch deep into the past,” said Frank Ruttens, head of the Meiboom Guild — a collaboration between the local parish federation and the historical society. “The earliest records we’ve found date from 1457, but it likely goes back even further.”
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Local schoolchildren staged a historical re-enactment recalling the longstanding ties between Tervuren, Leuven and Brussels — once ducal cities connected through archery competitions held on this neutral ground.
In a poignant moment, a Ukrainian women’s choir performed on day 1162 of Russia’s full-scale invasion, while folkloric character Rosse Lowie entertained the crowd with customary antics. A lively performance by the Tervuren folk giant Jomme and the Reuzegom dancers brought the festivities to a close.
An estafette race between children representing the colours of Leuven and Brussels revived old rivalries and traditions, ensuring this valuable piece of intangible cultural heritage continues to thrive for future generations.
Auteur: Dafydd ab Iago. © Artikel en foto zijn gelicentieerd © 2024 voor Tervuren+ onder de Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International-licentie.
