EVENTS

International Film Festival
The last 2 weeks of January sees Brussels ' many cinemas filled with premieres of new European and International films, often with opportunities to hear directors and producers discussing their art. [More]

Binche Carnaval
A mardi-gras type affair with traditional local costumes, orange throwing and musical accompaniment in this small Belgian village to the East of Brussels. There's not much for the audience to do but drink copious amounts of beer, eat, and join in the dancing. Two days before Shrove Tuesday (lasts for 3 days).

Brussels Half Marathon
The city's famous 20 km race is usually scheduled for the third Saturday in May, attracting over 20,000 runners, with many International professionals. [More]

Brussels Jazz Marathon
A whole weekend of jazz performances in formal venues and local bars across the city, usually scheduled for the last weekend in May.

Rock Festival 'Werchter'
Belgium 's equivalent of Glastonbury but slightly smaller and cheaper, this annual 3 day event is usually scheduled for the last weekend of June. 3 day tickets come in under £100 and include all the big names in British and European rock and pop.

Belgian historical parade
The annual 'Ommegang' procession parades enormous puppets and locals in traditional costume through the Grand Place to re-enact key moments from Belgian history. The first Tuesday and Thursday in July, this adds a spectacular sight to your visit to the Grand Place

Grand Place Flower Carpet
From the 13 - 15 August, to celebrate Belgian independence a gigantic carpet of flowers is set up in the Grand Place , usually entwined into amazing patterns and designs, making for a spectacular sight.

Public Holidays

Mar/Apr - Easter Monday
1 Nov - All Saints' Day
15 Aug - Assumption
21 Jul - Belgium National Day
1 May - Labour Day
1 Jan - New Year's Day
25 Dec - Christmas Day
11 Nov - Armistice Day