About this Event
The Procession of the Holy Blood is a large religious Catholic procession, dating back to the Middle Ages, which takes place each Ascension Day in Bruges, Belgium. Since 1304, it has passed through the historic city centre almost every year, with Biblical stories as its theme, centred on the relic of the Holy Blood kept in the Basilica of the Holy Blood. Recognised by UNESCO in 2009 as Intangible Cultural Heritage, the 2027 edition will once again take visitors on a journey through time, with thousands of participants, historic costumes, music, and pageantry.
Date & Time
Bruges | 6 May 2027 | 14:30 — The Procession of the Holy Blood takes place on Thursday 6 May 2027, Ascension Day, starting at 14:30 at the Dijver. You are welcome all day in Bruges, with the actual spectacle beginning at 14:30.
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Venue & Location
The procession takes place through the heart of Bruges city centre, starting at Dijver, 8000 Bruges, Belgium, and passing the Basilica of the Holy Blood, Burg 13, 8000 Bruges, and the Markt and Burg squares. The route winds through the entire medieval city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with grandstand seating along the route.
Staying overnight?
Check the nearest hotel near the venue.
Complete schedule at a glance
| Time | Programme | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 09:30 AM | Lauds (morning prayer) | Basilica of the Holy Blood |
| 10:25 AM | Morning procession carrying the relic | Burg to St Saviour’s Cathedral |
| 11:00 AM | Solemn Eucharistic celebration | St Saviour’s Cathedral |
| After Mass | Opportunity to venerate the relic | St Saviour’s Cathedral |
| 02:30 PM | Main Procession of the Holy Blood | Starting at Dijver |
| 05:30 PM | Closing ceremony and blessing | Burg Square |
I must recommend arriving before 1:30 PM if you want to find a good viewing position for the afternoon procession and keep in mind to contact Euro Evento if you need more information or any of our service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to help you plan your visit.
When is Procession of the Holy Blood 2027?
Procession of the Holy Blood 2027 will take place on Thursday 6 May 2027, Ascension Day, starting at 14:30 at the Dijver in Bruges. It takes place every year on Ascension Day, on the Thursday in the Week of Prayer of the Holy Blood.
Where does the Procession of the Holy Blood start and what is the route?
The procession begins at the Dijver at 14:30 and takes you on a route through the heart of Bruges city centre, passing the Basilica of the Holy Blood, Burg, and Markt. No De Lijn buses will run on the procession route from 12:45 until the procession is over.
Do I need tickets for Procession of the Holy Blood?
Watching the procession from the streets of Bruges is free, with crowds lining the route through the medieval city centre. Grandstand seating along the route is ticketed, so check the official website at bloedprocessiebrugge.be for grandstand tickets and practical information.
What is the relic of the Holy Blood?
The relic is said to be a cloth stained with the blood of Christ, carefully sealed in a rock crystal vial and encased in a richly decorated gold and silver reliquary. Brought to Bruges by the Crusaders, it is kept in the Basilica of the Holy Blood and is carried through the city during the procession.
Is Procession of the Holy Blood suitable for first-time visitors?
Absolutely. It is one of Bruges’ most remarkable events, attracting tens of thousands of visitors, pilgrims, and locals. First-time visitors should arrive early for a good viewing spot, combine the procession with a visit to the Basilica of the Holy Blood, Burg, Markt, and the canals, and book hotels in Bruges well in advance for Ascension Day.
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