The Heilig Bloedprocessie (Procession of the Holy Blood) has been held on Ascension Day since at least 1304. It's Bruges' most important annual event, and the entire city turns out for it.

The procession is a combination of biblical scenes, medieval pageantry, and civic pride. Hundreds of participants in elaborate costumes re-enact scenes from the Old and New Testaments. There are horsemen, musicians, flagellants, and elaborately decorated floats. The whole thing takes about two hours to pass any given point.

The climax is the relic itself — the phial of holy blood carried by the Bishop of Bruges in a golden reliquary, surrounded by members of the Noble Brotherhood of the Holy Blood. They've been guarding the relic since the 12th century.

The best viewing spots are along the Burg square and the Simon Stevinplein. Get there early — an hour before the procession starts. Or book a seat on one of the grandstands (tickets available from February through the tourist office).

The procession was added to UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2009. It's not a tourist show — it's a living tradition that Bruges takes seriously. If you're in the city on Ascension Day, everything else can wait.