Sprangspressessioun dancing procession in Echternach

Luxembourg is a small country with a rich historical past. Its traditions, particularly religious ones, are deeply rooted. Indeed , Luxembourgers know how to preserve their spiritual and religious heritage. The dancing procession in Echternach is one of the most remarkable elements of this cultural heritage. It is also listed as part of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It is a memorable experience for pilgrims and visitors alike. The next dancing procession will take place on Tuesday, May 24, 2026.

Dancing procession around Echternach Abbey in Luxembourg

Located in the picturesque town of Echternach, Echternach Abbey, founded in the 7th century, is one of the most important religious sites in Luxembourg. Echternach is a town in the northeast of Luxembourg. Every year on Whit Tuesday, thousands of pilgrims gather around Echternach Abbey to take part in the "Sprangsprecessioun." This unique procession is punctuated by dancing in the streets of the town. It symbolizes faith, hope, and unity. The popularity of this Catholic pilgrimage grows every year. Each year, more than 10,000 spectators come to witness this very special event.

Traditional pilgrimage in honor of Saint Willibrord

The day after Pentecost Monday in Luxembourg, thousands of pilgrims and spectators flock to Echternach

The "Sprangpressessioun" in Echternach

They come to take part in the religious procession in honor of Saint Willibrord. Some pilgrims, particularly those from Germany, set off on foot on Pentecost Sunday to reach Echternach on Tuesday. They are then escorted to the Basilica to attend a solemn mass. After Mass, the pilgrims line up outside the Basilica, then skip inside, around the sarcophagus of Saint Willibrord. Once the procession is over, a second Mass closes the event. During this very special procession, the pilgrims skip for nearly three hours to the beat of rhythmic music. The faithful stand on either side holding white handkerchiefs, in rows of five or six people. Hopping from left to right, they gradually advance towards the tomb of Saint Willibrord. The route is more than two kilometers long. Christians who are unable to hop for hours follow the procession by singing or praying. St. Willibrord (657-739) is the founder of Echternach Abbey. He is also the patron saint of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. He rests in the crypt of the Basilica. This unique procession has been listed as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2010.

Origins of the dancing procession in Echternach

The true origin of the "Sprangspressessioun" is not very clear. According to legend, the minstrel of Echternach, who had been sentenced to death, asked for the opportunity to play the violin one last time. This final favor was granted, and he led the onlookers in a completely frenzied dance. Unable to stop, they sought the help of Saint Willibrord to halt their uncontrolled movements. In fact, the dancing procession of Echternach is said to cure people suffering from St. Vitus's disease. This childhood nervous disorder is characterized by clumsy and uncontrolled movements.

Luxembourg Cultural Heritage and Traditions Day

Since 2019, Pentecost Tuesday has been designated "Luxembourg Cultural Heritage and Traditions Day." Schoolchildren in Echternach are given the day off on the day of the procession so that they can attend if they wish. Some 2,000 pupils take part each year. In addition, all schools in Luxembourg study Luxembourg's cultural heritage, including the dancing procession in Echternach. Pilgrims seeking spiritual comfort and a connection with the divine can take part in several pilgrimages in Luxembourg, including the Oktave. They can also gather at the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Wiltz on Ascension Day.