What is Geraardsbergen Mattentaart Day?

Geraardsbergen Mattentaart Day is celebrated annually in Belgium on the penultimate Sunday of April to honor the Geraardsbergse Mattentaart, a traditional puff pastry filled with sweet curd. This unique delicacy has protected geographical indication (PGI) status, meaning it can only be made in Geraardsbergen and its surrounding areas using traditional methods.

The event serves as a tribute to local craftsmanship and culinary heritage. It brings together locals, tourists, and pastry enthusiasts who enjoy freshly baked mattentaarten, attend baking demonstrations, and learn about the history of this regional specialty. The day is also an opportunity to support local bakers and promote Belgian food culture.

History and origin

The Geraardsbergse Mattentaart has a history that dates back to the Middle Ages, with the first recorded mentions appearing in the 16th century. The word “matten” refers to the curdled milk used in the filling, a key ingredient that gives the pastry its distinct texture and taste. It is believed that monks and local farmers developed the recipe, using surplus milk to create a new type of pastry.

To preserve the authenticity of the mattentaart, local bakers established the brotherhood of the Geraardsbergse Mattentaart in 1979. Their mission was to protect and promote the traditional production of the pastry. In 1980, the first official Geraardsbergen Mattentaart Day was held to celebrate the region’s iconic dessert.

In 2007, the European Union granted the pastry protected geographical indication status, recognizing its cultural and regional significance. This ensures that only mattentaarten made in Geraardsbergen and following the traditional recipe can carry the official name.

Who participates in Geraardsbergen Mattentaart Day?

• Local bakers who prepare and sell authentic mattentaarten using the traditional recipe
• The brotherhood of the Geraardsbergse Mattentaart which organizes events and ceremonies, including the induction of new members
• Residents and tourists who take part in tastings, cultural events, and local festivities
• Food historians and culinary experts who discuss the history and importance of regional specialties
• Local businesses and markets that promote and sell traditional Belgian food products

Slogans and themes

Geraardsbergen Mattentaart Day is centered around culinary heritage, craftsmanship, and regional pride. The celebration promotes the importance of preserving traditional food culture and supporting local artisans. Common slogans include “A Taste of Tradition,” “Belgium’s Iconic Pastry,” and “Authentic Craftsmanship from Geraardsbergen.” The event highlights the deep connection between food and regional identity, ensuring that future generations appreciate and continue the tradition.

Colors, symbols, and patterns

Colors

• Golden yellow represents the crispy, flaky crust of the baked mattentaart
• Creamy white symbolizes the rich curd filling made from high-quality milk
• Brown reflects the artisanal baking process and traditional ovens used

Symbols

• Mattentaart silhouette showcases the iconic round shape of the pastry
• Puff pastry layers represent the craftsmanship involved in making each tart
• Milk and eggs highlight the key ingredients that give the mattentaart its unique flavor

Patterns

• Spiral designs mimic the layered structure of puff pastry
• Weaving patterns symbolize the deep-rooted history of the mattentaart in Belgian culture
• Traditional Flemish motifs reflect the region’s heritage and influence on local cuisine

How to celebrate Geraardsbergen Mattentaart Day

• Visit Geraardsbergen to experience the festivities and taste fresh, handmade mattentaarten
• Attend baking demonstrations to learn about the traditional process from expert bakers
• Support local artisans by purchasing authentic mattentaarten and other regional delicacies
• Participate in cultural events such as music performances, historical exhibits, and guided food tours
• Share the tradition online by posting about the celebration and spreading awareness of Belgian food heritage

Most used hashtags

• #GeraardsbergseMattentaart
• #MattentaartDay
• #BelgianFoodCulture
• #TraditionalBaking
• #AuthenticCraftsmanship

Why is Geraardsbergen Mattentaart Day important?

Geraardsbergen Mattentaart Day plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting an important part of Belgian food culture. By celebrating this event, locals and visitors help protect a centuries-old culinary tradition and support small-scale bakers who maintain the original recipe. The event also strengthens regional identity, as it highlights the deep historical and cultural ties between Geraardsbergen and its famous pastry.

Beyond tradition, the event has a significant economic impact. The celebration attracts tourists, boosts local businesses, and brings greater recognition to Belgian artisanal baking. It also serves as a platform to educate the public about the importance of geographical indication protections and why maintaining authenticity in food production matters.

Through festivities, tastings, and educational events, Geraardsbergen Mattentaart Day ensures that this beloved pastry remains a source of pride for future generations. By participating, people not only enjoy a delicious treat but also contribute to the preservation of an essential part of Belgian culinary heritage.