Maria Ommegang Bergen op Zoom, the Netherlands

Experience the charm of our colorful procession of thanksgiving.

During the Second World War, chaplain W. Ooijens solemnly promised the Holy Virgin Mary that, together with the people of Bergen op Zoom, he would bring a procession of thanksgiving into the streets if the city were spared from the violence of war and liberated. This procession of thanksgiving became known as the Maria Ommegang. More than ever, this promised procession remains relevant today and invites people to reflect on our freedom, especially in light of the events taking place around the world.

The Maria Ommegang has grown into a grand procession of thanksgiving featuring many creative displays in which generations of people participate, families come together, and connection is celebrated. Representatives and delegations from various Marian cities and special guests have taken part in the procession, including the delegation from Oudenaarde with the KSA fanfare drum corps, the delegation from Aardenburg with the traditional costume group Mooi Zeeland, the Knights Templar, the pilgrimages of Kevelaer and Beauraing, Pro Petri Sede, the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Our Lady of Jesse Guild from Delft, among many others.

With approximately 700 participants and thousands of visitors each year, the Maria Ommegang is an indispensable part of the cultural heritage of Bergen op Zoom and its surrounding region. Relive the Biblical and cultural scenes as a participant or spectator, with people dressed in colorful costumes, beautifully decorated floats, accompanied by magnificent music and dance.

Source:  Maria Ommegang Bergen op Zoom: https://mariaommegang.nl/