What is Heritage Day in Flanders?

Heritage Day, or Erfgoeddag, is an annual event in Flanders and Brussels, celebrated on the first Sunday after the Easter holidays. This day highlights both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, focusing on traditions, crafts, archives, historical objects, and stories passed down through generations.

During Heritage Day, museums, archives, heritage libraries, and cultural organizations across Flanders open their doors to the public, offering free activities, exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours. Each year, a specific theme encourages participants to engage with heritage in new and interactive ways.

History and Origin

Heritage Day was first organized in 2001 by FARO, the Flemish support center for cultural heritage. Inspired by similar heritage initiatives in Europe, the event aims to make cultural history more accessible and engaging for a wide audience.

Over the years, Heritage Day has grown into a major annual event, with hundreds of locations participating. The day provides a platform for local communities, historians, and cultural institutions to showcase their work, helping to preserve and promote Flemish heritage.

Who Participates in Heritage Day?

• Museums and archives: Organize special exhibitions, guided tours, and interactive displays.
• Heritage libraries: Present rare collections and historical documents to the public.
• Local historical societies: Share knowledge about regional history and traditions.
• Cultural organizations: Host performances, storytelling sessions, and craft demonstrations.
• Volunteers and communities: Contribute to the preservation and promotion of heritage through hands-on participation.

Slogans and Themes

Each year, Heritage Day is centered around a specific theme that encourages exploration and discovery. These themes focus on different aspects of Flemish heritage, making each edition unique.

Connecting past and future highlights how heritage influences modern life. Stories that shape us explores the power of oral history and personal narratives. Handcrafted traditions showcases skills and crafts that have been passed down through generations.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

Colors

• Earth tones: Represent the natural materials used in traditional crafts and historical sites.
• Deep red and gold: Reflect the rich artistic heritage of Flanders.
• Soft blue: Symbolizes the connection between past and present.

Symbols

• Open book: Represents historical archives, libraries, and storytelling.
• Key: Symbolizes access to hidden stories and places.
• Tapestry patterns: Reflect the artistic traditions of Flanders.

Patterns

• Brick and stone textures: Represent historic buildings and Flemish architectural styles.
• Hand-drawn maps: Symbolize the exploration of heritage sites.
• Ornamental flourishes: Inspired by traditional Flemish design.

How to Celebrate Heritage Day

• Visit museums and heritage sites: Many places open their doors for free guided tours and exhibitions.
• Join a historical walk: Explore your local history with storytelling guides.
• Attend workshops and demonstrations: Learn about traditional crafts, music, or storytelling.
• Participate in interactive activities: Engage in hands-on experiences like calligraphy, weaving, or restoration work.
• Share your experience online: Use social media to spread awareness and connect with others celebrating the event.

Most Used Hashtags

• #Erfgoeddag
• #HeritageDayFlanders
• #CulturalHeritage
• #FlemishTradition
• #DiscoverHistory

Why is Heritage Day Important?

Heritage Day helps preserve and promote Flemish culture by making history accessible to everyone. It strengthens community ties, encourages local participation, and raises awareness about the importance of conservation.

By opening up archives, museums, and historic sites, the event inspires people to learn about their own heritage. It also provides a platform for knowledge sharing between generations, ensuring that traditions and stories continue to be passed down.