GILLE A PONT

Overview

We are in the North of France. The town of Binche, in Belgium, is not far away. It is considered the capital of the gilles, the jesters of the North of France. That tradition dates back to the last century. It was so popular that it eventually became widespread. Once during a carnival, some gilles appeared on this side of the border, in Pont-sur-Sambre. The story of the gilles of Pont started very humbly at Alain and Josiane’s, who run a garage. Their passion for the gilles led them to create a non-profit organization that welcomes unemployed or employed workers, mothers and people on welfare. They gather together all through the year to play gille and communicate to those who watch them marching, their joy of dancing and singing to the rhythm of drums and brass.