Planning a trip to Belgium can be exciting, but it’s essential to consider the events that might shape your experience. Whether you’re looking to avoid crowds or immerse yourself in local traditions, knowing what’s happening around the country can be incredibly helpful. From bustling city festivals to relaxed cultural events, Belgium’s calendar is packed with exciting happenings in 2025.

Public Holidays in Belgium

Belgium’s public holidays are perfect opportunities to enjoy the country’s cultural and festive atmosphere, but keep in mind that many businesses will be closed, and opening hours for museums and other attractions may change. The official holidays for 2025 are:

• January 1st: New Year’s Day
• April 21st: Easter Monday
• May 1st: Labor Day
• May 29th: Ascension
• June 9th: Whit Monday
• July 21st: National Holiday (with parades in Brussels)
• August 15th: Assumption Day
• November 1st: All Saints
• November 11th: Armistice Day
• December 25th: Christmas

Sunday Shopping – Koopzondag

Belgium has a tradition of Sunday rest due to its Christian roots, but over the years, “Koopzondag” or Sunday Shopping has gained popularity. On the first Sunday of each month, stores in major city centers are open for shopping, making it a great opportunity to explore local commerce.

2025 Koopzondag dates:

• January 5th
• February 2nd
• March 2nd
• April 6th
• May 4th
• June 1st
• July 6th
• August 3rd
• September 7th
• October 5th
• November 2nd
• Every Sunday in December

Notable Festivals and Events in Belgium’s Major Cities

Now, let’s dive into the festivals and events happening across Belgium’s cities in 2025. I’ve highlighted the most significant ones, focusing on those that impact daily life or offer unique cultural experiences.

Antwerp

Antwerp boasts a variety of cultural and festive events throughout the year, from carnival celebrations to major marathons. Here are some to keep in mind:

• Paaskermis (Easter Fair) – April 5-21
• Baloise Antwerp 10 Miles (Running Contest) – April 27
• Sinksenfoor (Summer Carnival) – June 7-July 13
• Unicorn Festival (Music Festival) – June 20
• Antwerp Pride Parade – August 9
• Antwerp Marathon – October 19
• Antwerp Christmas Market – December 5-24

Bruges

Known for its medieval charm, Bruges is equally renowned for its vibrant events, from cycling contests to cultural parades:

• Ronde van Vlaanderen (Cycling Contest) – April 6
• Meifoor (Spring Fair) – May 9-June 1
• Procession of the Holy Blood – May 29
• Cactus Festival (Music Festival) – July 11-13
• WECANDANCE (Music Festival) – August 15

Brussels

The capital city offers a blend of cultural, music, and street festivals. Some of the most significant events in Brussels for 2025 include:

• Bright Brussels (Light Festival) – February 13-16
• Belgian Pride Parade – May 17
• Brussels Jazz Weekend (Music Festival) – May 24-26
• Couleur Café (Music Festival) – June 27-29
• Ommegang Pageant – July 2-4
• Brussels Winter Wonders (Christmas Market) – November 28-December 31

Ghent

Ghent is known for its historical events and cultural festivities, making it an exciting destination for travelers. Key events include:

• Facts (Comic Con) – April 5-6
• Gentse Feesten (Cultural Festival) – July 18-27
• Patershol Feesten (Cultural Festival) – August 15-17
• Museum Night Ghent – December 4

Hasselt

Hasselt is home to a wide range of events throughout the year, including music festivals and traditional fairs. Notable events for 2025 include:

• Kersenbloesemfestival (Cherry Blossom Festival) – March 8-13
• Live in Hasselt (Music Festival) – May 31
• Pukkelpop (Music Festival) – August 14-17
• Winterland (Christmas Market) – November 14-January 4

Liège

Liège offers a variety of festivals, with a particular focus on music and local culture:

• Beer Lovers’ Marathon (Beer Festival) – May 17
• Les Ardentes (Music Festival) – July 3-6
• Foire D’Octobre (Carnival) – October 5-12

Mons

Mons is an exciting city to visit in 2025, known for its colorful parades and music festivals. Highlights include:

• Cavalcade de Quaregnon (Cultural Event) – April 18-21
• Ritual Ducasse of Mons (Cultural Event) – June 11-21
• Dourfestival (Music Festival) – July 16-20

Namur

Namur offers a blend of sporting events and traditional festivals, perfect for those who enjoy both adventure and culture:

• Folknam (Cultural Event) – April 19
• Wallonia Rally (Sport Event) – April 25-27
• Barnabeer (Beer Festival) – June 26-28

Music Festivals in Belgium 2025

Belgium is a hub for some of the best music festivals in Europe. Here are a few standout festivals for 2025:

• Mayday Mayday (Music Festival) – May 1 (Kortrijk)
• Brussels Jazz Weekend (Music Festival) – May 24 (Brussels)
• Rock Werchter (Music Festival) – July 3-6 (Leuven)
• Pukkelpop (Music Festival) – August 14-17 (Hasselt)
• Tomorrowland (Music Festival) – July 18-20 (Boom)
• Dourfestival (Music Festival) – July 16-20 (Mons)

Conclusion

Belgium is a country of vibrant traditions, diverse cultures, and fascinating festivals. Whether you’re visiting for the music, the culture, or simply the experience of living in the moment, these events will add an extra layer of excitement to your trip. Make sure to check out the dates and plan your visit around these incredible happenings!