Belgium is packed with an exciting calendar of festivals and events that showcase its rich culture. From food festivals to music celebrations, there’s always something going on. Whether you’re a foodie, a music lover, or just curious about local traditions, Belgium has the perfect event for you. Here’s a look at some of the top festivals and seasonal events you should not miss during your visit to Belgium.
1. Carnival of Binche
The Carnival of Binche is one of Belgium’s most famous cultural events. Celebrated for over 600 years, this UNESCO-recognized festival takes place in the small town of Binche. It usually happens in February, around Shrove Tuesday. The star of the event is the appearance of “Gilles”—local men dressed in elaborate costumes with wax masks and feathered hats.
The Gilles parade through town, dancing to rhythmic drumbeats and throwing oranges into the crowd. Why oranges? According to tradition, they symbolize good luck. Make sure to catch the procession through the narrow streets, but watch out for those flying oranges!
2. Tomorrowland
If electronic music is your thing, Tomorrowland is a must. Held annually in Boom, Belgium, this festival has gained international fame for its huge stages, incredible light shows, and top DJs. It usually takes place in late July over two weekends.
Expect a party of epic proportions. People from all over the world come together to enjoy non-stop music and a magical atmosphere. Tickets sell out fast, so be sure to book well in advance if you plan on attending.
3. Brussels Flower Carpet
Every two years in August, the Grand Place in Brussels transforms into a stunning flower carpet, made up entirely of begonias. In just a few hours, volunteers lay out over 600,000 flowers to form intricate designs that span almost 2,000 square meters. The flower carpet event is spectacular and doesn’t last long—around four days—so don’t miss it!

In addition to the flower display, expect concerts, light shows, and even a buzzing food market nearby. This short but breathtaking event fills the air with sweet scents and vibrant color, giving you a memorable summer experience in Brussels.
4. Gentse Feesten (Ghent Festival)
Each July, the city of Ghent hosts Gentse Feesten, one of Belgium’s biggest cultural festivals. This festival has been around since the 19th century and persists for ten days during the summer.
It’s a street party filled with live music, street performances, carnival rides, and food stalls. Whether you like rock music or folk, you’ll find something to enjoy. The lively atmosphere across the entire city makes this festival special. It’s particularly family-friendly, but there’s plenty of nightlife too for the party crowd.
5. Ommegang Pageant
If you’re in Brussels during the summer (usually early July), you can attend the Ommegang Pageant. This historical reenactment celebrates the visit of Emperor Charles V, who was welcomed in Brussels in 1549. Over 1,400 actors, horseback riders, and performers bring the event to life with costumes, parades, and medieval weaponry.
The Grand Place sets the stage for this historical spectacle, and the place feels like stepping back in time. You don’t need to be a history buff to enjoy it. Expect traditional outfits, folk performances, and a lot of Belgian pride.
6. Rock Werchter
Rock Werchter takes place in late June or early July every year. It’s located in the village of Werchter and is one of the biggest and most popular rock festivals in Europe. If you’re into rock, indie, or alternative music, this festival is the place to be.
Past lineups have included huge names like Paul McCartney, Arctic Monkeys, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. Camping is available, making it easy to soak up the full weekend festival experience. It’s a mix of global acts and Belgian talent, with plenty of beer and food to keep you fueled for the shows.

7. Christmas Markets
Belgium knows how to do Christmas, with markets popping up all over the country from late November to early January. The most famous Christmas market is in Brussels, around the Grand Place, but you’ll also find magical markets in cities like Bruges, Ghent, and Leuven.

Expect stalls with local crafts, mulled wine, chocolate, and regional food specialties like waffles and sausages. Some of the larger markets even have ice skating rinks and fairground rides. It’s the perfect winter activity, made even better with some Belgian hot chocolate in hand!
8. Leuven Beer Weekends
If you’re a beer lover, Leuven is the Belgian city you want to visit. Known as the brewing capital of Belgium, it is home to massive beer festivals like the Leuven Beer Weekend, usually happening in late April or early May. The event showcases hundreds of local brewery creations.
This is a great place to try everything from fruity Belgian beers to stronger abbey-style brews. The event also hosts beer tastings, food pairings, and brewery tours, making it an ideal stop for anyone interested in Belgium’s world-famous beer culture.

9. Zinneke Parade
The biennial Zinneke Parade in Brussels is one unique, offbeat event. This artistic parade takes place in May, every two years, and invites locals to creatively express themselves. Unlike traditional parades, there are no floats or giant balloons. Instead, there are community-made costumes, performances, and interactive installations.
The theme of the parade changes with each edition, and it’s always a visual treat. It has a very local, authentic feel. If you’re in Brussels when it’s on, it’s one of those hidden gems that makes for an unforgettable experience with a quirky twist.
10. International Bathtub Regatta
For something truly quirky, check out the International Bathtub Regatta in Dinant. Held every year in August, participants race down the Meuse River in homemade “boats” made out of bathtubs. Yes, bathtubs!

It’s a lighthearted spectacle where creativity wins out over speed. The event has an energetic carnival atmosphere with plenty of humor, costumes, and cheering crowds. Whether you participate or just watch from the shore, it’s a fun and silly way to spend a summer day in Belgium.
11. Fête de la Communauté Française
This French-speaking festival occurs every year on September 27th to celebrate the French-speaking community of Belgium. It’s particularly vibrant in Brussels and Wallonia, where you’ll find concerts, performances, and public ceremonies.
The event showcases Belgian culture through dance, music, and theater, usually ending with a firework display. If your visit coincides, it’s an ideal chance to experience the local Francophone culture up close.
12. Belgian National Day
Belgium’s National Day is held annually on July 21st to commemorate the Belgian Revolution. It’s a massive celebration with parades, concerts, and fireworks across the country. In Brussels, the day kicks off with a military parade at the Royal Palace, followed by fairs, food stalls, and live performances.
Belgian National Day is all about enjoying Belgian life. There’s an emphasis on community, history, and food. Expect fireworks in most major Belgian cities to top off the night. You’ll feel the national pride wherever you go!
Final Thoughts
Belgium may be small, but its festival scene is massive. From music celebrations like Tomorrowland to quirky local events like the Binche Carnival, there’s something for everyone. Whether you plan to visit in the summer or during winter, you’ll always find a fun and festive event to attend. Get your calendar sorted and enjoy the best of Belgium’s events!
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