Under the motto 'Pier es ier!', the 'Week of Ghent' pays tribute to Pierke, an icon connecting generations of Ghent residents. The exhibition at STAM, open from November 20, 2026, to April 18, 2027, features around 200 puppets from private collections, a traveling puppet theater, and a new documentary about the puppeteers.
Pierke, known for his outspokenness and strong sense of justice, holds a special place in the hearts of many Ghent residents. Eight puppeteers continue the tradition. The exhibition highlights not only the puppets but also the men and women behind the curtain.
“"Pierke is much more than a puppet from our Ghent folk culture: he is an icon that connects generations of Ghent residents and contributes to the unique character of our city."
In addition to the exhibition, Erfgoedcel Gent (Ghent Heritage Cell) is organizing a broad program with (puppet) theater, music, and lectures. Puppet theaters will offer performances, the Culinary Exposition at the Hotel School will serve tasty snacks alongside a lecture by Luk De Bruyker, and Wim Claeys will teach children Ghent songs. Ghent museums will host special guided tours in Ghent dialect, and Dieter Vanoutrive will present his book '200 years of Pierke'.
The full program also includes guided walks and café chantants that bring Ghent's language and culture to life. The complete schedule can be found at erfgoedcel.gent/weekvanhetgents.
