Nieuwmunster to host annual Saint Bartholomew festivals

The village of Nieuwmunster is preparing for its annual Bartholomew festivals, celebrating the patron saint Saint Bartholomew, who has watched over the community for over eight centuries.

A central event of the festivities is ‘Operation 100 Barten’, scheduled for Sunday, August 23. The initiative invites anyone—regardless of whether their name is Bart, Bertha, Bert, or Robert—to walk in the footsteps of the apostle for a day. Participants will gather at the historical Lourdesgrotto in Doelhofstraat, using walking sticks as symbols of pilgrims.

The celebration includes a procession, an eucharistic service at the Saint Bartholomew Church, a public reception, and a festive meal in the village square. To mark the occasion, Bart Mommerency has composed a special song to be performed at the start of the procession.