Fiery Berchem closed magically: “We never expected this massive turnout” (Berchem)
The end-of-year program Fiery Berchem came to an end this weekend with the first Berchem light procession and spectacular fire spectacles. “We are transforming our Brilschans park into a warm and magical place with a fairytale atmosphere,” said mayor Evi Van der Planken.
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“We started with a parade of lights through the Brilschanspark and the nature park on the other side of the Singel, accompanied by the Antwerp Ghostwalk. Anyone can get a light here to walk with. It is the first time that we are organizing this”, said Hans De Bakker, communications manager for the Berchem district. “Due to corona, we have been able to burn less Christmas lights in recent years, which meant that there was more budget. With that budget we wanted to give something back to the residents of Berchem, hence this first edition of Vurig Berchem. And given the great success, this may not be the last time.”
Mayor Evi Van der Planken did not expect it to be such a great success. “We were very lucky with the weather, but we did not expect such a massive turnout. The intention of this evening is to turn the hope for the new year into reality. Through an enchanted atmosphere to hope that the people who die can go to 2023.”
Sisters Elke and Frauke also had a great time during Vurig Berchem. “We walked along in the procession of lights and that was really nice to see, all those lights in a long row. I am also impressed by all the people present here. It is also much less cold than expected and you can sit nice and warm here by the fire pits.”
The light procession made its debut this year during Vurig Berchem. Together with three storytellers from Antwerp Ghostwalk, the inhabitants of Berchem walked through various parks. “We ensure that the atmosphere is good during the walk and wish everyone a very happy year,” said Stefan Livens, founder of Antwerp Ghostwalk.