This year the entire party grounds are bathed in “strange” atmosphere. In the Karperhoeve, the creative heart of the organization, dozens of volunteers have worked on a colorful and sustainable decoration in recent months. Large dolls made of recycled shopping bags decorated with Christmas card collages, a gigantic circus clown from plastic flowers and a ceiling full of waxes with second -hand clothing are just a selection of the striking decor elements. From the underwear from the Bomma to the neighbor’s hot pants – nothing is too crazy!
In practical terms, renewal was also considered. For example, the layout of the two party squares – the Pier & Pol Plein and Paulusplein – has been revised. On the Pier & Pol Plein, the stage is again on the side of the Amandine, just like before 2019. The large tent returns as a central meeting place between the two podiums the Mainstage on Sint-Petrus and Paulusplein and the 2nd stage on Paulusplein, with atmospheric bars and closing afterparty-dj’s.
Ostend is again central for the 52nd edition. With toppers such as Preuteleute, Red Sebastian and Dimaro, the organization has purebred Ostend class boxes such as headliners. And also closing ænima – A Tool Experience, Flatcat, Mystery, BRLRS, Draw XL, Ostend sings … are just a few of the more than forty acts with artists or strong links with the city.
For the fourth year in a row, the Paulus festivals outsource part of the programming on Paulusplein to friendly and Ostend organizations. This makes it not only a party before Ostendaars, but also through Oostendenaars! Thanks to the cooperation of Stinstage, De Vis Storm vzw, FMDO vzw (Department of Ostend) and youth music center OHK, there is a wide range of acts every day on the nicest square in Ostend!
And of course there is street theater again at the Paulus parties. They kick off with Papi Flex, who manages to fold his own body in the most impossible corners. On Friday afternoon, Ostend sports clubs introduce themselves – local talent in the spotlight! The Zwammadams are also there again, good for a portion of humor and confusion.
And finally there is also children’s fun for the little ones at the Paulus parties – with Pinocchio as a guide! During the Paulus parties, the little ones are immersed every day on the Paulusplein in a imaginative world, with Pinocchio As a cheerful host. To 14 hours the children are welcomed by Pinocchio himself, who starts every day with a funny and stimulating question: “Who, where and when can we actually lie?” After that the party for the children is really bursting!
With a mix of tradition, innovation and a good dose of fantasy, this 52nd edition of the Paulus parties promises to be a party again for and by Oostendenaars – and far beyond. Whether it concerns surprising acts, a crazy decor or a bustling atmosphere: “Strange” is simply very normal at the Paulus parties.