The Fête de la Saint-Erasme is a traditional festival celebrated in the town of Saint-Erasme, located in the Hainaut Province of Belgium. This annual event honors Saint Erasmus of Formia, known as Erasme in French, who is the patron saint of sailors, mariners, and those afflicted with abdominal pains.
The celebration of Saint Erasmus has roots in the Middle Ages, reflecting the town's historical connection to the saint. Saint Erasmus, often depicted with a windlass, symbolizes the extraction of intestines, a reference to his martyrdom where he was tortured by having his intestines wound out with a windlass. His feast day, June 2, became an occasion for the local community to come together in celebration, prayer, and festivities.
While the core elements of the festival remain traditional, modern adaptations include cultural performances, exhibitions, and sometimes, themed events that reflect current community interests or issues. The festival not only serves as a religious observance but also as a cultural event that strengthens community bonds.