Leuven – Leuven celebrated its 75th Annual Fair, drawing large crowds to popular pubs such as De Vetten Os, managed by André Van Der Eeken, along with Café Marengo, Jeeskesboom, and Leivese Ton. Visitors began arriving early, with the first attendees reaching De Vetten Os by 6 a.m., reports 24brussels.
VRT News reported that many were eager to join the festivities. Victor, one of the early patrons, expressed his enthusiasm for the event’s lively atmosphere.
“I’m not going to beat around the bush; we’re actually drinking beer here in the early morning,”
Said Victor, who emphasized the joyous spirit of the festival.
“This is a Leuven folk festival that I want to attend every year. As you can see, everyone here is happy. I’m not going to count the pints I’m going to drink, but there will be quite a few.”
What makes Leuven’s 75th annual fair with De Vetten Os and André Van Der Eeken special?
A group of colleagues from Gasthuisberg Hospital joined the early clientele at De Vetten Os, including Anita, who had just concluded a night shift.
“It was a busy night at the hospital, but it feels great to have fun before heading home to rest,”
She remarked.
André Van Der Eeken, who has operated De Vetten Os for 38 years, shared insights into the extensive preparations required for the fair’s kickoff.
“I got up at 1:15 last night to set up the counters outside and make the rolls,”
He mentioned, adding that this event carries significant importance.
“This is a special day. People are cheerful, and they are also spending money.”
Despite being officially retired, André continues to oversee the café during the festivities and has yet to find a successor.
“I hope future owners will maintain this tradition and continue to host the start of the annual fair at De Vetten Os,”
He remarked. Other establishments like Café Marengo, Jeeskesboom, and Leivese Ton also experienced hefty foot traffic on this significant day.
“Everyone comes out today. People who haven’t seen each other in a long time are reuniting,”
Commented Stijn from Leivese Ton.
“And that includes sausages with roasted onions. I’ve already fried and sold quite a few sausages, because when people start drinking in the morning, they get hungry earlier.”
The Leuven Annual Fair, which originated in 1948, has evolved into one of the city’s signature cultural events. By the 1970s, venues like De Vetten Os became essential gathering spots for early-morning revelers. Over time, the celebration broadened, incorporating several local pubs including Café Marengo, Jeeskesboom, and Leivese Ton.
