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๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ช Belgium /Culture & Society

Reet Lights Up for Annual Art-Themed Festival

From VRT NWS · () Dutch

Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • The Belgian town of Reet is hosting its annual Light Festivals, featuring over 350 illuminated houses and gardens.
  • This year's theme is 'ART,' with residents drawing inspiration from famous artists like Piet Mondriaan, Vincent van Gogh, Salvador Dalรญ, and Andy Warhol.
  • The event, which began 68 years ago as a way to bring light during dark times, has evolved into a tradition that strengthens community bonds.

The Belgian town of Reet is aglow with its annual Light Festivals, an event that transforms the streets into a vibrant exhibition of art and community spirit. Over 350 houses and gardens are adorned with creative light displays, all centered around this year's theme: 'ART.' Residents have drawn inspiration from renowned artists, infusing their displays with the styles of Piet Mondriaan, Vincent van Gogh, Salvador Dalรญ, and Andy Warhol.

We have been crafting a lot together in recent weeks. Each street has interpreted the theme in its own way. We chose Piet Mondriaan.

โ€” Annie Van HoofA resident of Hortensialaan, explaining the collaborative effort behind the light displays.

This tradition, which originated 68 years ago in the post-war era as a beacon of hope, has grown into a cherished annual event. It serves not only as a visual spectacle but also as a powerful force for community cohesion. "Working with a theme has truly made it a group effort," shared Annie Van Hoof, a resident of Hortensialaan. "Crafting together with neighbors strengthens that group feeling."

By working with a theme, it has truly become a group effort. Crafting together with neighbors strengthens that group feeling.

โ€” Annie Van HoofHighlighting the community-building aspect of the Light Festivals.

The festival attracts visitors from beyond Reet, eager to witness the residents' artistic endeavors. Families like Gaรซlle Timmermans' are enjoying the illuminated streets, with children captivated by the displays. The event offers a 5-kilometer walking route, complete with four summer bars for refreshments. The Light Festivals are free to visit in the Predikherenvelden area of Reet until Sunday evening, offering a magical experience for all.

This is a nice one to take a photo with.

โ€” Bennie SpiessensAdmiring a neighbor's Van Gogh-inspired light display.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.