Simpélourd, a flagship event of Sonégien folklore, once again demonstrated its ability to bring together all generations. Local specialties such as arraigné bread, homemade carabibis, « à prônes » rabbit, « à prônes » tart, and accessories featuring the effigy of Mononk sonégien marked this living tradition. Many shops, bakeries, pastry shops, and Horeca establishments showcased Simpélourd in their windows, reflecting local enthusiasm.
The festival attracted thousands of people, confirming its status as an important regional fair with about thirty fairground attractions set up in the town center squares. The fair remains open until Tuesday evening. The Mayor, Fabienne WINCKEL, highlighted the success of the 2026 edition, which was particularly appreciated by children and families during this holiday period.
As every year, Mononk Simpélourd was welcomed at Soignies station at 7:15 PM, before discovering the folkloric groups. The procession, with nearly 700 participants, was a source of pride for the Municipal Festival Committee. The Alderman for Festivals and President of the Festival Committee, Julie MARCQ, emphasized the scale of the parade.
The procession included the Gilles « Les Gais Amis », the Grenadiers of the Imperial Guard of Soignies, the Giants « Dudule, Joséphine & Charlotte », JNC Band Show, the Confrérie de l’Araignée, the Pet’Bootjes d’Hazebrouck, Caber Feigh Pipe Band Mons, the Confrérie des Géants du Centre Reine Fabiola, the Fanfare Ouvrière de Soignies, and Mononk Simpélourd with the Bois Vignol carriages.
This edition was special for the Confrérie de l’Araignée, which celebrated its 40th anniversary, added Julie MARCQ.
Festivities continue this Tuesday with the « Diamond Girl Ecaussinnes » entertainment at 7:45 PM and the traditional burning ceremony on the Grand’ Place at 8 PM, in the presence of the Fanfare Ouvrière, the Giants « Dudule & Joséphine », and the Gilles « Les Gais Amis ».
The City of Soignies and the Municipal Festival Committee invite the public to participate in this burning ceremony, emphasizing the importance of passing on local traditions.
