Brussels hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, so there is a very good chance that there will be some sort of special event taking place when you plan to visit. From film festivals to flower shows and everything in between, Brussels has it all.
When you plan your next trip, take a look at the top festivals and goings-on in Brussels. Get tickets in advance for the event that interests you the most. You may even be lucky enough to check out more than one, especially in the summer.
Tip: Before joining in on a crowded festival, leave your shopping bags and backpacks in a luggage storage in Brussels for safekeeping.
Anima Festival
Usually held in February, the Anima Festival pays tribute to cartoons and animation films, both amateur and professional. This celebration is the starting point for other national and international anima festivals and nominates films for prestigious awards.
Each year hundreds of short films and feature films are submitted for review and judging. Interviews with directors and artists are featured, as well as meet-and-greets for the public to feel like a part of the whole anima community.
Salon du Chocolat
Held in February, the Salon du Chocolat celebrates all things chocolate. New York, Paris, London, and Tokyo also host their versions of this festival, completely dedicated to chocolate.
Enjoy cooking demonstrations, tastings, workshops, exhibitions, and even conferences for chocolatiers. You do not have to be a pastry chef or chocolatier to attend the festival, you just need a deep appreciation for this delicious treat!
Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival
Horror films have their own event in Brussels! Most horror films are not for the faint of heart, but if you are one that truly enjoys a great, gory horror story, this festival should not be missed. It is the chance of a lifetime to view some of the most terrifying films.
Held in March, three different movie theaters throughout Brussels play host to a series of over 100 films being featured that year. The festival has grown to include fantasy and science fiction as well as horror or thriller.
The Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival draws more than 60,000 people annually and presents awards in several different categories. Grab your tickets early to ensure you get to experience it firsthand.
Zinneke Parade
The first Zinneke Parade was held in the year 2000 and since then has grown into a fantastic festival that encompasses the culture of Brussels. Held in May, the event is more than just a parade. It’s an entire week of celebrations!
The parade kicks off the festival and is filled with crazy, creative costumes and floats that showcase the culture and vibrancy of the city. Each year, the fete has a different theme that helps revitalize the people and the city.
Festival of Europe
Also known as Europe Day, May 9th is set aside to celebrate unity and peace throughout Europe. Activities are arranged through the various European Union offices throughout Europe, and the popularity of Europe Day has grown in recent years.
Attend concerts, parades, and speeches to celebrate peace and promote unity throughout the European Union. Brussels hosts a wide variety of events through the first week of May leading up to Europe Day.
Queen Elisabeth International Music Competition
Named to honor Queen Elisabeth of Belgium, the first music competition was held in May of 1937 and has since grown into an international competition featuring new musicians from around the world.
The Queen Elisabeth International Music Competition has several different categories including singers, composers, classical instrumentalists, and cellists. This competition has evolved into one of the most prestigious music competitions in the world.
Jazz Marathon
This three-day event is held in May and performed on the outdoor stages of the Sint-Katelijine Square, Grand Place, Cocq Square, and Sablon Square. The Jazz Marathon is dedicated to all things jazz.
Come listen to a fantastic concert by professional and amateur jazz musicians and singers. Order a beer or a glass of wine, sit back and enjoy lively performances that are open to the public at no charge. Get there early before each concert to get a seat.
Ommegang Festival
One of the oldest festivals in Belgium, the Ommegang Festival pays tribute to Charles V and Philip, his son. The first Ommegang Festival was held on the first Thursday of July in 1549.
Today, it is still held on the first Thursday of July and sees over 1,400 people attending, sporting medieval weaponry and wearing colorful costumes honoring Belgium’s history. This spectacular medieval pageant is a must-attend if you are visiting in July.
Flower Carpet
Head to the Grand Place and watch as volunteers weave vibrant carpets made from flowers grown throughout Belgium. It takes millions of flowers to create these breathtaking flower carpets that line the street leading out of the Grand Place.
The event first started in 1971 and has been organized every other August since then, with a new theme each time. The Flower Carpet is something you have to see in person.
Each night of the Flower Carpet festival, a special musical theme is played and a live concert is given. Marvel at the fantastic light show to go with the music.
Brussels Summer Festival
Also known as Eu’ritmix, the Brussels Summer Festival is an annual event first held in 2002 in August. This music festival honors European artists and encourages up-and-coming artists to come to play to thousands of visitors.
Concerts are held throughout the city in many of the squares and are free to attend. This musical gala can become crowded, so get there early to find the best spot to watch the show.
Brussels Christmas Market
This is the highlight of the Christmas season for many. The annual market, also known as Winter Wonders, has many vendors offering unique gift ideas. The merriment of the market is infectious and you will find yourself enjoying the gaiety.
Vendors set up from the Marché aux Poissons to the Bourse Stock Exchange all the way to the Place Sainte Catherine. Watch street performers entertain the crowds, strap on a pair of skates and hit the rink, or wander through the vendors.
Brussels is always brimming with activities and festivals seem to be their choice of entertainment. With several events held throughout the year, be prepared to celebrate!
Resources:
https://www.brussels.com/v/festivals/
https://www.zinneke.org/?lang=en
https://www.brussels.be/winter-wonders
