The Ultimate Guide to Belgian Festivals: From Tomorrowland to Traditional Folk Celebrations
Belgium is truly a cultural crossroads in Europe, and this is perfectly reflected in the richness and diversity of its festivals. From the futuristic beats of Tomorrowland to the age-old traditions of folk celebrations, every season is marked by events that draw visitors from all over the world. If you're planning a trip to Belgium or simply looking for a unique experience, here’s your complete guide to the must-see Belgian festivals!
BELGIUM
4/16/20255 min read
Why Visit Belgium for Its Festivals?
Small in size but immense in cultural richness, Belgium offers a festival scene that far exceeds its borders.
Each region — Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels — nurtures its own traditions, artists, and musical styles.
Attending a festival in Belgium means diving headfirst into a full cultural immersion.
Belgian festivals are famous for their flawless organization, lively atmosphere, and, of course, the warm welcome of the Belgian people.
It’s also the perfect opportunity to sample local specialties, like craft beers, crispy fries, and Liège waffles.
Tomorrowland: The World's Ultimate EDM Festival
The biggest EDM festival on the planet
You simply can't talk about festivals in Belgium without mentioning Tomorrowland, held in Boom, Flanders.
This festival is considered the Holy Grail of electronic music, drawing over 400,000 festival-goers from all around the world every year.
Tomorrowland is renowned for its spectacular stage designs, breathtaking visual effects, and a lineup that features the world’s top DJs — including David Guetta, Armin van Buuren, Martin Garrix, Charlotte de Witte, and many more.
Practical Information
When? Two weekends in July
Where? Boom, between Antwerp and Brussels
Price: Starting from €120 for a day pass (full weekend passes sell out very quickly)
Booking: Tickets available through presales several months in advance
Dour Festival: An Eclectic Mix of Electro, Rock, and Hip-Hop
The most diverse festival in Belgium
The Dour Festival, located in Hainaut province, offers a completely different vibe.
More underground than Tomorrowland, it focuses on an eclectic lineup that blends electro, hip-hop, techno, rock, reggae, and experimental music — perfect for curious music lovers!
With a chill, alternative atmosphere, Dour attracts a young, multicultural, and festive crowd.
It’s also one of the rare festivals that has truly maintained a strong community spirit, with lively camping zones buzzing day and night.
Practical Information
When? Mid-July
Where? Dour, in Wallonia
Price: Around €160 for the full 5-day experience
Vibe: Relaxed, inclusive, alternative
Les Francofolies de Spa: Celebrating Francophone Music
For lovers of French and Belgian music
For over 30 years, Les Francofolies de Spa have been shining a spotlight on Francophone music in all its diversity.
Held in a charming spa town in the heart of the Ardennes, this festival is a must for fans of French-language chanson, pop, rap, and electro.
The lineup is always a well-curated mix of Belgian and international artists, featuring names like Angèle, Stromae, Orelsan, Christine and the Queens, and Julien Doré.
Practical Information
When? End of July
Where? Spa, Province of Liège
Price: Varies depending on the day and stage
Don't Miss: Free concerts throughout the town during the day!
Fêtes de Wallonie: Traditions, Folklore, and Good Cheer
A popular and festive gathering
The Fêtes de Wallonie, held every September in several cities, are a great example of the Belgians' deep connection to their heritage.
In Namur, the capital of Wallonia, the celebrations are especially grand: historical parades, traditional music, local product tastings, and lively street performances.
The event is completely free and brings together all generations in a joyful, friendly atmosphere… often with a good amount of beer flowing! Don’t miss the unique folkloric stilt-fighting competition, a one-of-a-kind tradition in Europe.
Practical Information
When? Third weekend of September
Where? Namur and other Walloon cities
Price: Free
Perfect for: Discovering local customs and enjoying a good beer!
Carnaval de Binche: Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO
A dive into a centuries-old tradition
The Carnaval de Binche, recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, is undoubtedly Belgium's most famous folkloric festival.
Every year, in February or March (depending on when Mardi Gras falls), the small town of Binche comes alive with the beat of drums, lively dances, and the Gilles – masked characters dressed in traditional costumes.
It's a one-of-a-kind spectacle, rich in symbolism, where traditions are passed down from generation to generation.
Practical Information
When? Late February – early March
Where? Binche, Hainaut province
Price: Free
Must-See: The throwing of oranges from the Grand-Place!
Rock Werchter: The International Stage for Rock and Pop
A must for rock fans
Located just 30 km from Brussels, Rock Werchter is one of the largest rock festivals in Europe. With a daily capacity of over 80,000 spectators, it welcomes the biggest international bands and artists: Red Hot Chili Peppers, Arctic Monkeys, Foo Fighters, Pearl Jam, and more.
It’s also a model for a “clean” festival, environmentally conscious, and exceptionally well-organized.
Practical Information
When? Early July
Where? Werchter, Flemish Brabant
Price: Around €120 for a day, €300 for a full pass
Camping: Recommended to fully experience the atmosphere!
Couleur Café: Multiculturalism and World Music
A festive melting pot in the heart of Brussels
The Couleur Café festival is a musical and culinary event that celebrates urban cultures and world music: reggae, soul, hip-hop, afrobeat, R&B, and more. All set in a highly positive, engaged, and inclusive atmosphere.
It takes place in a green oasis at Tour & Taxis, just minutes from downtown Brussels. It’s also one of the most environmentally and diversity-conscious festivals.
Practical Information
When? Late June
Where? Brussels
Price: Affordable, around €60 for a day
What to Try: The “Food Village” with flavors from around the world
Tips for Fully Enjoying Belgian Festivals
Plan your trip in advance
Book your ticket as soon as sales open (especially for Tomorrowland or Rock Werchter).
Choose your accommodation early: hotels and Airbnb fill up quickly.
Use public transport or official shuttles to avoid traffic jams.
What to pack in your festival bag?
Earplugs
A reusable water bottle
A waterproof jacket (Belgian weather can be unpredictable!)
Comfortable shoes
Your best smile 😄
Belgium, a Land of Festivals to Experience Intensely
With its incredible variety of festivals, Belgium offers much more than just a trip: it’s an immersive cultural experience. Whether you’re a fan of electronic music, curious about folkloric traditions, or a rock enthusiast with a love for culinary discoveries, you’ll surely find your joy.
Don’t wait any longer to plan your stay in Belgium around one (or more!) of these festivals. And above all, take the time to immerse yourself in the local vibe, because that’s where the magic happens.