La danse des Gilles
La danse des Gilles is a documentary photo series
capturing the vibrant tradition of the Gilles during
the 2022 carnival of Haulchin.
The Gilles are a unique part of Belgian folklore, mainly from the Centre region in Hainaut, though the tradition exists in a few other places as well.
The Gilles—only men, ranging in age from as young as four years old and even younger, to the elderly—begin preparing in the early morning for the long day ahead. Their traditional attire, richly decorated with intricate patterns, is filled with straw, giving them their distinctive rounded shape. Some also wear elaborate hats adorned with ostrich feathers. Wearing wooden clogs, they march tirelessly from before sunrise until late at night, moving to the steady rhythm of drums, brass, and woodwind instruments.
The procession moves from house to house, gathering all the Gilles along the way. By the afternoon, they unite in the village center, where they march together in a spectacular celebration of tradition, music, and community.
