My teenage daughter and friend will be in Bruges on May 1, which is Ascension Day. Just found out that there is a huge celebration called the Procession of the Holy Blood. From our research we have found out that you need to book tickets well in advance to get a spot along the procession line. My question is this: Has anyone been to Bruges during this festival, and if so, what can they expect? Are shops/museums etc open? Will they be able to get to the tourist sites, the main square etc.? This is their only full day in Bruges, so they would like to be prepared.
A lot of restaurants set up chairs outside and will sell you a seat that morning. Just walk the procession route and ask. The tickets are probably for the ceremony of the Holy Blood at the Cathedral and they may well be sold out in advance. Most businesses are closed that day but the procession is worth being in town to see.