The Biggest Festivals in Belgium

Discover the Best Cultural Events in Belgium

Belgium is a country renowned for its heritage, art, culture, and gastronomy. Every year, the country hosts a variety of festivals that attract millions of tourists from around the world. From music to arts, food to beer, and everything in between, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the biggest festivals in Belgium that you should not miss.

🎉 The Ghent Festivities

The Ghent Festivities is one of the largest cultural events in Europe and takes place in July. For ten days, the city of Ghent transforms into a hub of artistic performances, music shows, street theater, and parades. This festival attracts over 1.5 million visitors annually.

🎉 Tomorrowland

Tomorrowland is one of the biggest music festivals in the world and takes place in the city of Boom during the last weekend of July. The festival features some of the world’s best DJs and draws crowds of over 400,000 people. Every year, Tomorrowland is known for its elaborate stage designs and pyrotechnic shows that leave visitors awestruck.

🎉 The Seafood Festival

The Seafood Festival is a food lover’s paradise and takes place in the coastal city of Oostende. The festival features freshly caught seafood cooked in a variety of ways, from steamed mussels to grilled shrimp. It takes place over two weekends in August and attracts over 200,000 visitors annually.

🎉 The Flower Carpet Festival

The Flower Carpet Festival takes place every two years in the city of Brussels. The festival features a spectacular display of over 600,000 begonias arranged in intricate patterns that cover the city’s Grand Place. This festival attracts over 100,000 visitors annually and is a must-see for nature lovers.

🎉 The Carnival of Binche

The Carnival of Binche is a UNESCO World Heritage event and takes place in the town of Binche. The carnival features a procession of Gilles, who wear iconic costumes and masks and throw oranges to the crowd. This festival is believed to date back to the 14th century and attracts over 100,000 visitors annually.

🎉 The Christmas Markets

The Christmas Markets are a staple of Belgian culture and take place in cities all over the country. The markets feature handcrafted gifts, food, and drinks, and are known for their festive atmosphere. The markets attract millions of visitors annually and are a great way to get into the holiday spirit.

🎉 The Bruges Beer Festival

The Bruges Beer Festival takes place in February and is a celebration of Belgium’s world-renowned beer culture. The festival features over 70 Belgian breweries showcasing their beers, from Trappist ales to lambics. This festival attracts over 10,000 visitors annually and is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts.

🎉 The International Film Festival Ghent

The International Film Festival Ghent is one of the most important film festivals in Europe and takes place in October. The festival features a selection of international and Belgian films, workshops, and panels. The festival attracts over 100,000 visitors annually and is a great event for film lovers.

🎉 The Chocolate Festival

The Chocolate Festival takes place in the city of Bruges and is a celebration of Belgium’s most famous export. The festival features chocolate tastings, workshops, and demonstrations by expert chocolatiers. The festival attracts over 30,000 visitors annually and is a must-visit for chocolate lovers.

🎉 The Ommegang

The Ommegang is a historical reenactment of a procession that took place in 1549 and takes place in the city of Brussels. The procession features knights, musicians, and dancers dressed in traditional costumes. The festival attracts over 10,000 visitors annually and is a great way to experience Belgium’s rich history.

🎉 The Brussels Jazz Marathon

The Brussels Jazz Marathon takes place in May and features over 400 musicians performing in venues all over the city. The festival attracts over 50,000 visitors annually and is a great way to experience the vibrant music scene in Brussels.

🎉 The Zinneke Parade

The Zinneke Parade takes place every two years in the city of Brussels and is a celebration of multiculturalism and diversity. The parade features artists, musicians, and performers from all over the world, and attracts over 100,000 visitors annually.

🎉 The Flanders International Film Festival

The Flanders International Film Festival takes place in the city of Ghent and is one of the most prestigious film festivals in Europe. The festival features a selection of international and Belgian films, as well as workshops and panels. The festival attracts over 100,000 visitors annually and is a must-visit for film enthusiasts.

🎉 The Festival of Wallonia

The Festival of Wallonia takes place in the city of Namur and is a celebration of the region’s heritage and culture. The festival features a variety of events, including concerts, dance performances, and exhibitions. The festival attracts over 100,000 visitors annually and is a great way to experience the unique culture of Wallonia.

FAQ

1. When is the Ghent Festivities?

The Ghent Festivities takes place in July.

2. What is the Flower Carpet Festival?

The Flower Carpet Festival is a festival that takes place every two years in Brussels and features a spectacular display of over 600,000 begonias arranged in intricate patterns that cover the city’s Grand Place.

3. When is the Bruges Beer Festival?

The Bruges Beer Festival takes place in February.

4. Where is the Seafood Festival held?

The Seafood Festival is held in the coastal city of Oostende.

5. When is the Festival of Wallonia?

The Festival of Wallonia takes place in the city of Namur.

6. What is the Ommegang?

The Ommegang is a historical reenactment of a procession that took place in 1549 and takes place in the city of Brussels.

7. What is the Zinneke Parade?

The Zinneke Parade is a celebration of multiculturalism and diversity that takes place every two years in the city of Brussels.

8. What is the Brussels Jazz Marathon?

The Brussels Jazz Marathon is a music festival that takes place in May and features over 400 musicians performing in venues all over the city.

9. What is the Flanders International Film Festival?

The Flanders International Film Festival is a prestigious film festival that takes place in the city of Ghent.

10. What is the Carnival of Binche?

The Carnival of Binche is a UNESCO World Heritage event that takes place in the town of Binche and features a procession of Gilles, who wear iconic costumes and masks and throw oranges to the crowd.

11. Where are the Christmas Markets held?

The Christmas Markets are held in cities all over Belgium.

12. What is the International Film Festival Ghent?

The International Film Festival Ghent is a film festival that takes place in October in the city of Ghent.

13. What can I expect at the Chocolate Festival?

The Chocolate Festival is a celebration of Belgium’s most famous export and features chocolate tastings, workshops, and demonstrations by expert chocolatiers.

Conclusion

Belgium is a country that is rich in culture, heritage, and festivals. From music to art, food to beer, and everything in between, there is something for everyone. The biggest festivals in Belgium are a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the country’s vibrant spirit. So, why wait? Plan your trip now and discover the best cultural events in Belgium.

Disclaimer:

This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or financial advice. The information contained herein is based on our research and may be subject to change without notice. We are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any outcomes that may result from relying on the information contained in this article. Please consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the information contained herein.