Pie, Wanne and Jomme Keeping Tervuren’s Giant Tradition Alive

The Reuzenvereniging Tervuren once again took center stage at the Tervuren’s annual braderie and flea market, stretching from Markt to surrounding streets.

The cultural association organizes the annual braderie with support from local groups and the town hall.

Reuzenvereniging Tervuren now focuses on promoting folklore and strengthening ties with organizations such as the Heemkundige Kring.

Pie, Wanne and Jomme

At the heart of the festivities are the giants Pie, Wanne and their son, Jomme. Created in 1951, Pie and Wanne recall Tervuren residents returning from the Leuven fair during the interwar period.

Pie, 3.1 meters tall and 51 kilograms, carries meat over his shoulder. Wanne, slightly heavier at 56 kilograms, bears a basket of produce. Their son Jomme, introduced in 1975, stands 2.6 meters and weighs 48 kilograms.

Founded in 1948 as the Feestcomiteit der Reuzen, the group celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2023 with a new logo and flag, officially unveiled by then-Mayor Marc Charlier.

The Giants are woven into the very fabric of Flanders’ cultural history, and in Tervuren their presence feels especially alive. For generations, the towering figures have paraded through the streets, turning summer days into moments of shared wonder and festivity.

This year, the Giants Festival once again transformed the Markt into a stage of music, laughter, and spectacle, drawing both locals and visitors into the celebration. Backed by the town’s financial and logistical support, the Giants continue to stand tall — symbols of tradition, community, and joy.