Festival Frontnacht with extreme right-wing bands may not take place in Ypres

Frontnacht normally takes place next Saturday, on the eve of the Yserwake in Steenstraete. The festival has been under discussion for months because of bands linked to neo-Nazi movements.

The festival was to take place on Saturday, August 27. According to the city, the condition that there should be no connection with neo-Nazis and neo-fascism is not met.

Earlier, various organizations and political parties had already stepped up pressure to cancel the festival. The security services were also concerned about the event.

As early as May, opposition party Groen put the brakes on banning the Frontnacht festival. The admission in early July was the impetus for a much broader movement across party lines. A petition followed, which has since been signed more than 3,000 times. An open letter, endorsed by many prominent figures and organizations from civil society, put even more pressure on the city council. So with results.

The organization is considering legal action

Organizer Wim De Wit is surprised with the decision. He does not understand and demands compensation for the costs incurred.

This evening the organization will meet to see whether they may take legal action.