For special occasions, Manneken Pis gets dressed up. Last Sunday, he was dressed for Meyboom ~ a tradition based on a medieval legend. The Meyboom (Tree of Joy)  was first planted in Brussels in 1213 to celebrate a victory over the city of Leuven. Nowadays, it is a highly colorful parade, held every 9 August, in which a tree is brought to Brussels ~ featuring a brass band, giants and people dressed in folk dress. The planting of the Meyboom is recognized as an expression of intangible heritage by UNESCO. (it has to be planted by 5pm! or the party’s over for the day)  http://be.brussels/culture-tourism-leisure/brussels-folklore/meyboom

9aug15. Brussels, Belgium.