Belgium is the land of music festivals. From spring until late summer you can attend a music festival every weekend and even more than one in July and August. Flanders especially is a bit festival crazy, with even the smallest towns organizing their own festival.
Some of these music festivals in Belgium have been around for years and are now proper music institutions. I've put together a list for you with some of the biggest names and a few up-and-coming Belgian festivals.
There are rock, pop, world, electronic music festivals in Belgium and more, so you're sure to find a festival that suits your taste. There's no excuse. Summer in Belgium means festivals, and festivals mean fun!
If you see anything that needs to be updated, please let me know at wanderer@wonderfulwanderings.com or write a comment below !
Contents
- 1. Tomorrowland
- 2. Rock Werchter
- 3. Pukkelpop
- 4. Gentse Feesten
- 5. Dour Festival
- 6. Couleur Café
- 7. Graspop Metal Meeting
- 8. Paradise City
- 9. Les Ardentes
- 10. Cactusfestival
- 11. Lokerse Feesten
- 12. Linkerwoofer
- 13. Les Francofolies de Spa
- 14. Suikerrock
- 15. Dranouter
- 16. Antilliaanse Feesten
- 17. Sfinks Mixed
- 18. Genk on Stage
- 19. Listen! Festival
- 20. Extrema Outdoor
- 21. Fire is Gold
- 22. Voltage Festival
- 23. We can Dance
- 24. Brussels Summer Festival
- 25. Crammerock
- 26. Brussels Electronic Marathon
- 27. Fête de la Musique
- 28. Ommegang
- 29. Flower Carpet
- 30. Zinneke Parade
- 31. Muddy Roots Europe Music Festival
- 32. Maanrock
- 33. W-Festival
- 34. Cirque Magique
- 35. Meakusma
- 36. Groezrock
- 37. Gent Jazz Festival
- 38. Reggae Geel
- 39. Alcatraz Open Air
- 40. Deep In the Woods
- 41. Belgian Beer Weekend
- 42. Hapje-Tapje
- What is the biggest attending festival in Belgium?
- What is the biggest rave festival in Belgium?
- What is the biggest rock festival in Belgium?
- What is the biggest Electronic Dance Music festival in Belgium?
- What are the best Belgium music festivals to visit in September 2023?
- What are the best Belgium music festivals to visit in March, April and May 2024?
- What are the best Belgium music festivals to visit in June 2024?
- What are the best Belgium music festivals to visit in July 2024?
- What are the best Belgium music festivals to visit in August 2024?
- What music festivals haven't announced dates for in 2024 yet?
- What is the etiquette while visiting Belgium festivals?
- What to bring to music festivals in Belgium?
Listed below are the best festivals in Belgium.
- Tomorrowland. Tomorrowland is one of the biggest electronic dance music festivals in the world, taking place in Boom over two weekends in July. It is known for its elaborate stage designs, visual effects, and world-class DJ lineups.
- Rock Werchter. Rock Werchter is a large rock music festival held annually in late June/early July in Werchter, Belgium. It has featured major international acts across various genres and has a reputation as one of Europe's premier music festivals.
- Pukkelpop. Pukkelpop is an alternative music festival held each August near Hasselt, Belgium. With nine stages showcasing a diverse mix of rock, electronic, pop, hip hop, punk, and heavy metal, it has grown into one of Europe's largest festivals since starting in 1985.
- Gentse Feesten. Gentse Feesten is a huge 10-day music and theatre festival that transforms the entire city of Ghent into a lively festival area every July. With stages everywhere, it's known for its vibrant atmosphere and wealth of free events.
- Dour Festival. Dour Festival is an annual alternative music festival held in Dour, Belgium each July. With 10 stages over 4 days it features many genres like rock, electronic, pop, hip hop, punk, reggae and more,and draws over 200,000 attendees.
- Couleur Café. Couleur Café is a diverse urban music festival under the Atomium in Brussels held annually in late June. It focuses on hip hop, reggae, dubstep, and world music across 6 stages and also has a big world food market.
- Graspop Metal Meeting. Graspop Metal Meeting is Belgium's largest heavy metal festival, taking place annually in the town of Dessel each June. It caters to fans of metal, rock, and punk, with major acts performing on five stages over four days.
1. Tomorrowland
Tomorrowland 2023 gives you not just one, but two chances to enjoy some of the best electronic music acts from all over the world.
After the first edition of 2005, Tomorrowland has grown to be the biggest DJ festival in the world and the best-known music festival in Belgium. Each year, people are glued to their laptops hoping to secure a ticket. Because of this, the electronic festival took place over two weekends for the first time in 2017, and in 2023 it will continue this new tradition.
Aside from the big names in the line-up, Tomorrowland is also known for creating a completely different universe, with incredible stages and light shows. In 2022, 600,000 people attended, and tickets were sold out in just a few hours.
The Tomorrowland 2023 lineup includes Infected Mushroom, Claptone, Mariana Bo, and Marshmello.
Tomorrowland is one of the world's largest and most famous electronic dance music festivals, taking place over two weekends in July 2023 at the Domain De Schorre in the town of Boom, Belgium. The first weekend runs from July 21-23 and the second weekend is from July 28-30. Tomorrowland is popular for its elaborate stages, lighting, and effects. Tomorrowland spans 16 different stages showcasing the top DJs and producers across house, techno, trance, hardstyle and more. Camping is available on site and while the festival is not free.
Tomorrowland 2024 summer is scheduled to run on the weekends of July 19 – 21, 2024 and July 26 – 28, 2024 at Schorre Recreation Area, Boom, Belgium. Tomorrowland 2024 winter is scheduled to run on March 16 – 23 at Alpe d'Huez in the French Alps, near Grenoble, France.
Tickets sell out extremely quickly each year as dance music fans flock to experience the legendary atmosphere and production value of Tomorrowland. The cost is 999 euros. You can drive to Tomorrowland and park at one of the festival parking lots, or come by public transportation. De Lijn bus line 500 from Antwerp stops at the main entrance of De Schorre. Alternatively, you can take the train to the train station of Boom. Get your train tickets in advance to avoid queueing at the station.
2. Rock Werchter
Rock Werchter continues to live up to its fame as a legendary music festival for rock fans all over Europe, and in 2023 it gathers yet another mindblowing lineup of class rock acts.
Rock Werchter is one of the biggest pop and rock music festivals in Belgium. It always sells out super fast and is a real institute in the Belgian festival landscape, with four stages. In March 2017, Rock Werchter won the ILMC Arthur Award for “Best Festival” for the sixth time. And in 2022, the sold-out festival received over 500,000 people.
The Rock Werchter 2023 lineup includes artists such as The 1975, Arctic Monkeys, The Black Keys, Dope Lemon, and Iggy Pop.
Rock Werchter music festival is held annually in late June to early July in the village of Werchter, Belgium. The 2023 edition took place from June 29th to July 2nd. Rock Werchter features 4 stages and draws large crowds of around 150,000 people per day. Camping is available on site for ticket holders and the festival is not free. Rock Werchter has grown over the years into one of Europe's premier summer music festivals since its debut. Its impressive roster of past performers and lively atmosphere continue to make it a popular destination for music fans each year.
Rock Werchter 2024 is scheduled to take place from Thursday 4 to Sunday 7 July 2024. Get your tickets on Ticketmaster.
Your Rock Werchter ticket entitles you to a free return train ticket to the train station of Leuven, from where you can get the free shuttle bus to the festival site. More details on this offer will get shared closer to the event.
3. Pukkelpop
After 38 years, Pukkelpop has become one of the most important music festivals in Europe. Pukkelpop in Hasselt is a popular music festival as it has something for everyone. This festival has a dancehall, club tents, smaller stages and the main stage, each with a specific line-up, making Pukkelpop a very diverse festival. In 2022, over 180,000 people attended. The Pukkelpop 2023 line up includes Billie Eilish, The Killers, and Balthazar.
Pukkelpop is a major multi-genre music festival held annually in mid-August in the village of Kiewit near Hasselt, Belgium. The 2023 edition takes place from August 17-20 and will feature artists across rock, pop, electronic, hip-hop, punk, metal, and more on its 9 different stages. The Pukkelpop 2024 dates are yet to be confirmed soon. Camping facilities are provided on site for visitors and the festival is not free to attend. up to 200 acts playing each year, the festival caters to a wide range of musical tastes over its 4 days, making it a key destination for music fans of all genres.
If you have a ticket for the Pukkelpop festival, the Belgian railroads usually offer you a free return train ticket to Kiewit.
Pukkelpop takes place outside the center of Hasselt, a smaller Belgian city known for shopping and tasty things. Go check it out if you have some extra time.
4. Gentse Feesten
Join the biggest (and oldest!) party in Ghent at the Gentse Feesten. During the Gentse Feesten (the “Festivities of Ghent”), the entire city of Ghent turns into one big festival terrain. There are stages around every corner, food stands on almost every street and people everywhere. The die-hards party ten days long, others go for one evening or a weekend. You can attend some of the many concerts, but there's also dance, circus, comedy, games, exhibitions and more.
This Ghent festival has taken place since 1843 (!) and has always remained free. In 2022, over two million (!) people visited the Gentse Feesten during those 10 days.
The Gentse Feesten 2023 lineup is Fatih, Vive La Fête, Lady Linn & Her Magnificent Seven, Adam Hall & The Velvet Playboys (AUS), Pussy Willow, The Soultrain Expedition and Slow Crush and a few more. Gentse Feesten 2024 dates are yet to be confirmed soon.
Gentse Feesten 2023 edition runs from July 14-23 and will feature performers of all genres on 13 different stages set up throughout the city. As it takes place within Ghent itself, there is no camping on site but accommodation can be booked in the city. Remarkably, despite being one of Europe's largest festivals, Gentse Feesten has always been a free event since starting in 1843. During the day there are street performances, activities, and exhibitions, while at night music concerts go on until the early hours. With an atmosphere of revelry and city-wide celebration, Gentse Feesten brings over 2 million visitors to Ghent each year.
As one of Belgium's most visited cities, Gent offers a wide range of hotel options. The best way to travel to Ghent is by train. The city has two train stations which are both easily reachable from the rest of Belgium: Gent-Sint-Pieters and Gent-Dampoort. Your festival ticket allows you to freely take the bus and tram to and from the festival site in Ghent. As the Gentse Feesten takes place all over Ghent, you can perfectly make a city trip of it and discover some of the other things Ghent has to offer as well.
5. Dour Festival
Dour is the music fest in Belgium for alternative music, and in 2023 they return bigger than ever.
Dour is the biggest festival in French-speaking Belgium, with 10 stages and over 223,000 music lovers attending in 2022. Dour is known as a more alternative music festival, programming genres like dubstep, reggae, house, and other less mainstream genres. You'll find various kinds of music at Dour, but not many you'll hear on your average radio station..
Dour Festival is an annual multi-genre music festival held in Dour, Belgium. Since starting in 1989 with just 5 bands, it has grown into one of Europe's major music festivals, spanning 5 days and featuring over 250 artists across 9 stages. The festival showcases a diverse lineup of musical styles including rock, pop, hip hop, punk, reggae, electronic, indie, metal and more.
The Dour Festival 2023 is taking place from July 12-16. It typically draws around 225,000 attendees each year. The festival grounds are located at Plaine de la Machine à Feu in Dour, which is in the French-speaking region of Belgium near the border with France. Dour Festival 2024 is scheduled to take place from July 17 to 21 July 2024.
The Dour 2023 lineup includes Janelle Monae, Tokischa, Tiakola, and 070 Shake, Twin, Phoenix, Caribou, and Damso. Other notable acts are Denzel Curry, Peggy Gou, Men I Trust, Solomun, and Boys Noize. Over 200 artists are scheduled to perform.
The best way to get to Dour Festival is by train. The nearest station is Saint-Ghislain, where free shuttle buses provide transport to the festival site. Driving is possible but parking is limited. Attendees can also take coaches from nearby countries. The closest airports are Brussels, Charleroi, and Lille, which have rail connections to Saint-Ghislain.
Camping options are available at the festival, ranging from basic tent camping to more luxurious glamping. Accommodations can also be booked in nearby towns and cities. With its diverse music, party atmosphere and convenient location, Dour Festival promises to be an epic event this summer.
Dour has a free parking lot, so coming by car is definitely an option. Alternatively, you can take the train to the Saint-Ghislain train station, from where a free shuttle bus brings festival-goers to the site.
The Belgian railroads usually have a special offer for those traveling to Dour by train. While prices haven’t been announced yet, keep an eye on the Belgian trains website about a month before the start of the festival to see more details and buy your train ticket.
6. Couleur Café
Couleur Café 2023 brings back the most interesting artists in the world music landscape under the iconic Atomium in Brussels.
Couleur Café is a Brussels music festival right underneath the famous Atomium. It is the place to be for world music, reggae, hip-hop, dubstep and more. With six stages, you'll have a hard time deciding which acts to see, and then there are also the small side acts that pop up on the festival grounds.
For the hungry, I can highly recommend the world food market. In 2022, over 69,000 people attended the Couleur Café festival. It's one of the most popular festivals in Brussels.
The Couleur Cafe line up 2023 includes Tash Sultana, Eeyun Perkins, Joe Yorke, Sofia Gabanna, and Ayra Starr. Get your tickets for Couleur Café online.
Couleur Cafe 2023 dates are June 23-25, 2023. It is taking place in Ossegempark and Atomium Square, 1020 Brussels. The highlight music range is mostly Hip hop, reggae, dubstep, world music. Couleur Cafe has 6 stages. Camping facilities are provided on site for visitors and the festival is not free to attend.
If you are wondering how to get to Couleur Café, the answer is simple. Take the metro for free! Brussels has different train stations. The easiest one to get off at is Brussels-Midi, from where you can take metro line 6 in the direction of Koning Boudewijn. Get off at Heizel and you'll be right at the festival. To avoid queuing at the train station, get your e-train ticket here.
The code on your festival ticket allows you to get a free MIVB Event Pass which you can use to take the metro from anywhere in Brussels to Couleur Café. You can get this pass from any of the MIVB GO ticketing machines in the city. (MIVB is the Brussels public transportation company). The Belgian capital has plenty to offer. Stick around after the festival and have a look around.
7. Graspop Metal Meeting
The Graspop Metal Meeting festival celebrates its 26th edition in 2023 with four days of pure metal starpower to make it an unforgettable weekend.
As the name says, this festival is all about metal, rock, and punk. It's one of the most bad-ass festivals in Belgium. In 2022 the festival received over 220,000 visitors who came to rock.
Graspop Metal Meeting, Belgium's top metal festival since 1996, draws significant international attention. Visitor numbers have steadily risen, reaching 220,000 in 2022 and 2023. Although the festival area is small, its popularity is immense. All car parks at Graspop Metal Meeting are paid, with a higher fee on site. Festival tickets grant access to the arena, camping Boneyard and a shuttle from Mol train station. VIP tickets offer additional amenities but exclude food. Payments at the festival are made using Skullies on wristbands. Unauthorized ticket resales will be blacklisted.
The Graspop 2023 line up features over 100 amazing bands, including Guns N' Roses, Disturbed, Machine Head, Alter Bridge, Slipknot, Pantera, Motley Crue, Halestorm, and more. Graspop Metal Meeting 2023 tool place in June 15-18, 2023, in festivalpark Stenehei in Dessel. The festival feature metal music across five stages. Camping options are available. Entry is not free. The Belgian railroad has a special ticket for going to Graspop by public transportation from any station in Belgium. The train station you need to get to is the one of Mol. There will be free shuttle buses to take you to the festival site.
Graspop Metal Meeting 2024 will take place from June 20 to June 23 2024.
The presale ticket price for for Graspop Metal Meeting is €299.00 (£255 / $325) and tickets can be bought online when presale starts.
8. Paradise City
Paradise City Festival is a green electronic music festival that focuses on innovation and ecology through music. It is held annually in Perk, Belgium. Perk is a village in Flemish Brabant and has about 2800 residents. Perk is situated nearby to Huinhoven and Zonnebos. Paradise City Festival features a mix of house, techno, ambient, and experimental electronic music from top DJs and producers around the world. Don't expect a hippie kinda place. Do expect great foods made with local produce, the finest electronic music, a green camping site, and a laid-back vibe.
Paradise City Festival 2023 took place from June 30 to July 2. The 2023 lineup included Adriatique, Avalon Emerson, Ben UFO, Helena Hauff, Inner City, Laurent Garnier and over 40 other artists.
Paradise City Festival 2024 scheduled for June 28 to June 30, 2024. Paradise City is a new and rather small festival, but it grows bigger each year. Each year, the festival draws around 12,000 attendees for a weekend of dancing and music. In 2022, over 30,000 people attended the event. The festival usually starts on Friday at 12:00 until 01:00, Saturday at 12:00 until 01:00 and Sunday at 12:00 till 23:00. The campsite is available from Friday at 11:00 until Monday morning at 11:00.
Perk is a tiny town without a train station, so the easiest way to get there is by car. If you do want or need to take public transportation, you'll have to take the bus. Use De Lijn route planner to plan your trip. To get to Paradise City Festival, most attendees take the train to Vilvoorde Station and then shuttle buses to the festival grounds. Driving directions are provided on the festival website, with recommended routes from major cities like Antwerp, Brussels, Ghent, and Liege. Taxis and rideshares can drop off at the nearby Kiss & Ride point, about a 250 meter walk from the festival entrance. The festival also provides bicycle parking and encourages attendees to bike to the event.
The 2024 Paradise City Festival lineup has not yet been announced. However, the festival is known for booking top names in melodic house, techno, disco, and experimental electronic genres. Paradise City states its goal is to “gather happy people” and create “lasting memories” through its beautiful location and community of passionate music fans.
9. Les Ardentes
Les Ardentes is an annual multi-day electro-rock music festival held in early July in Rocourt, Liège. The festival features a diverse lineup of rock, electro, hip-hop, house, techno, drum and bass, pop, and other genres. The 2023 edition took place from July 6-9 at the festival site in Rocourt. The 2024 festival is scheduled for July 4 to July 7, 2024. Les Ardentes typically draws large crowds, with over 200,000 attendees reported at the 2022 event.
The 2023 Les Ardentes lineup included major acts like Kendrick Lamar, Travis Scott, J Balvin, Playboi Carti, and Rae Sremmurd. The specific artist lineup for 2024 has not been announced yet.
The festival takes place at the festival site in Rocourt, on the outskirts of Liège, Belgium. The site is accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation like buses and trains can also be used to reach the festival. There is a free shuttle running from the train station to the site of the festival.
Ticket prices for Les Ardentes vary based on the type of pass purchased. In 2023, a 4-day pass cost 95 euros. Single day tickets were also available, with prices starting around 50 euros. Camping passes could be added to the ticket packages as well. Full ticket pricing and details for 2024 have not been released yet. Large crowds are expected in Les Ardentes 2024.
If you're coming by car, you can park at the Liège-Guillemins train station. In previous years, this cost only €5/24 hours, but the prices may have changed since then. Obviously, you can also take the train there and avoid queueing at the station.
10. Cactusfestival
Cactusfestival has been making rock fans happy since 1982, and 2023 brings a mix of the biggest names in rock with fresh new acts that will make even the most ardent music lover happy.
Cactusfestival is an annual music festival held in Bruges, Belgium. It features rock, pop, indie, and other contemporary music genres. The 2023 edition took place from July 7 to July 9 2023 at Minnewaterpark in Bruges. The festival will take place again in 2024 from July 12 to July 14 2024. Cactusfestival typically draws around 25,000 attendees each year.
The festival features a single stage, so attendees don't have to choose between performers. Headliners in 2023 included The Libertines, Tamino, Arsenal, Roisin Murphy, and Goose. Cactusfestival 2023 lineup had over 20 acts like Kurt Vile & The Violators, Kim Gordon, and Charlotte Adigery & Bolis Pupul. The 2024 lineup has not yet been announced.
Cactusfestival takes place outdoors at Minnewaterpark, an idyllic park along a canal in central Bruges. The nearest train station is Bruges Station, about a 10 minute walk from the festival grounds. Shuttle buses also run from the train station to the festival, if you are arriving by train. Attendees can also reach the festival by car or bike; there is parking available near the grounds and a place to lock up bikes. The large parking lot at the train station is around €3 per 24 hours or.
Tickets for Cactusfestival 2023 ranged from 68-148 euros for single day to full weekend passes. Camping tickets were available for 20 euros. Service fees around 2 euros are added to each ticket price. Tickets usually sell out well in advance of the festival dates.
Thanks to its fairytale-like old town, Bruges is popular with visitors from all over the world. Come early or stick around after the festival to see its beauty for yourself. Check out my tips for Bruges to plan your trip.
11. Lokerse Feesten
The Lokerse Feesten is an annual 10-day music festival held in Lokeren, Belgium. It features a diverse lineup of rock, pop, hip hop, heavy metal, electronic music, and dance music. Lokerse Feesten 2023 took place from August 4-13 at the Grote Kaai venue in Lokeren. Lokerse Feesten 2024 will return for its 48th edition from August 2 to August 11, 2024. The Lokerse Feesten typically draws crowds of around 125,000 people over the course of the 10 days. The festival takes place at the Grote Kaai outdoor venue in the center of Lokeren in Belgiu,
The 2023 lineup included acts like Blur, Cypress Hill, Megadeth, Placebo, Skunk Anansie, Wilco, and Within Temptation. The specific lineup for 2024 has not yet been announced. The festival features one main outdoor stage as well as some indoor club stages. Lokeren is accessible by train from cities like Ghent and Antwerp. Bus routes also run to the festival site. Ticket prices vary by day, with early bird combo tickets starting around 220 euros. Individual day tickets can range from 35-69 euros depending on the lineup. The Lokerse Feesten offers an eclectic mix of music in a lively atmosphere that draws big crowds to Lokeren, Belgium every August.
The Lokerse Feesten venue is just a five-minute walk from the Lokeren train station. Get your train tickets in advance to avoid queueing at the station.
If you're staying in a town nearby, there are also night buses by De Lijn. In previous years, you could catch a bus that leaves from that train station at 2.45 a.m., but do check the bus timings to plan your trip accordingly. Information about parking spaces for this year hasn’t been released yet, but in past editions of the festival, the designated parking lots were away from the center. So you may need to take a shuttle bus from there.
12. Linkerwoofer
Linkerwoofer is a celebration of Belgian music with a chill atmosphere and plenty of activities to make it an unforgettable weekend for visitors of all ages.
Linkerwoofer is family-friendly music festival that takes place annually in Antwerp's left bank, Belgium. It features mostly rock and pop music from Belgian artists, though some international acts have performed as well. Linkerwoofer 2023 was scheduled for July 9-10 but was cancelled due to financial difficulties recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. The festival organizers announced they will not hold Linkerwoofer in 2023 but hope to bring the festival back in 2024, which would be the 17th edition of the event. Linkerwoofer usually draws around 15,000-20,000 attendees each year. There are two stages available for shoes. The festival takes place at Boeienweide park on the Left Bank of the Scheldt River in the Linkeroever district of Antwerp. Some of the acts that were scheduled to perform at the cancelled 2023 Linkerwoofer included Tourist LeMC, De Kreuners, Ruben Block, Compact Disk Dummies, and Het Zesde Metaal. The lineup for a potential 2024 return of Linkerwoofer has not been announced yet. The festival features multiple stages, including a main stage and a tent stage. To get to Linkerwoofer, attendees can take public transport to Linkeroever and then walk to the Boeienweide park location. Ticket prices for previous editions were around 20-25 euros for a day ticket and 35-40 euros for a weekend ticket. Camping is not available for the festival, so accommodation in the city is required.
Detailed information on getting to Linkerwoofer has yet to be released, but you can always take the train to Antwerp Central Station and from there the tram to Linkeroever, where Linkerwoofer takes place.
Sofie spent a year studying in Antwerp and still have so much left to explore. It's a vibrant city full of fashion, art, and tasty hotspots. So don't just come for the festival but pay the rest of Antwerp a visit as well.
13. Les Francofolies de Spa
Les Francofolies de Spa is the home of francophone music, and it comes back stronger than ever in 2024.
Les Francofolies de Spa is an annual music festival held in the town of Spa, Belgium. It showcases primarily francophone music across various genres including pop, rock, hip hop, and electro. Les Francofolies de Spa 2023 took place from July 20-23. The dates for Les Francofolies de Spa 2024 festival have not been officially announced yet. In previous years, the festival has drawn around 200,000 attendees. The festival takes place in the center of Spa, with multiple stages set up in the Parc de Sept Heures and Place Royale areas. Les Francofolies de Spa 2023 lineup featured artists like Juliette Armanet, Mika, Soprano, Pomme, Bigflo & Oli, and others. Les Francofolies de Spa 2024 lineup has not been revealed yet. There are usually 5 main stages at the festival site, including the Pierre Rapsat stage which hosts the headliners.
To get to the festival, Spa can be reached by car or train. Parking is available on the outskirts, while trains go right to the Spa station. Tickets can be purchased online or at box offices in Spa. Prices vary by day, but a full event pass runs around 135 euros. Day passes are around 60 euros. The festival offers an immersive experience with music, entertainment, food, and activities throughout the town of Spa over 4 days in July.
Les Francofolies de Spa takes place just a short walk from the train station of Spa. Get your train tickets in advance to avoid queueing at the station.
14. Suikerrock
Suikerrock 2023 continues to generate an unbeatable vibe that makes it a staple among the music festival in Belgium.
Suikerrock or “Sugar Rock” is a mainstream annual music festival that got its name from the large sugar factory in the city of Tienen, Belgium, where the festival takes place.
It features a lineup of pop, rock and electronic music artists. Suikerrock 2023 took place from August 4-6. Suikerrock 2024 festival is scheduled to take place from August 2 until August 4, 2024. Suikerrock draws large crowds, with over 100,000 attendees coming to the 3-day event. The festival takes place in the city center of Tienen, using the Grote Markt town square as its main stage area. Suikerrock 2023 lineup included major acts like Bastille, Franz Ferdinand, Regi, and Bart Peeters. The specific Suikerrock 2024 lineup has not yet been announced. Suikerrock utilizes multiple stages for performances, including the Main Stage on the Grote Markt, as well as the Cube and Palace stages.
Getting to Suikerrock is convenient, as the festival is walkable from Tienen's town center. There is also a free shuttle bus from the Tienen train station. Entrance tickets to Suikerrock cost around 25-50 euros per day. Suikerrock began in 1987 and has grown into one of Belgium's largest and most popular music festivals over its 35+ year history. With big crowds, a central location, and major international acts, Suikerrock is a premier destination on the European summer festival circuit.
While free things are happening around the city during Suikerrock, you have to buy a ticket to get to the Main Stage where the artists perform. After over three decades of hosting the festival in the city center, Suikerrock moved to a new location – behind the Tiense Suikerraffinaderij (sugar refinery) at the Bietenplein.
As the festival takes place in the city center, you can take the train to Tienen train station, which is just 800 meters away from the main stage. Just make sure to check what time the last train leaves if you're not staying at a hotel. Get your train tickets in advance to avoid queueing at the station. If you'd rather come by car, the train station also has a parking lot with 1,600 spaces.
15. Dranouter
Dranouter is an annual music festival held in the village of Dranouter, Belgium. It features a diverse lineup of folk and world music artists.
Dranouter Festival has a long tradition of gathering folk music fans from all over Europe since 1975. It is considered one of the largest folk music festivals in Europe.
Dranouter 2023 took place from August 4-6, 2023, Dranouter 2024 will take place from August 2 to August 4, 2024. The festival typically attracts around 50,000 attendees each year. Dranouter 2023 lineup included artists like Tom Odell, Passenger, ZAZ, Jake Bugg, Daði Freyr, Milow, Selah Sue, Rodrigo y Gabriela, and Go_A. Dranouter 2024 lineup has not been announced yet.
Dranouter festival has 7 stages spread across its grounds. Dranouter festival can be reached by train or bus. There is also parking available onsite. Tickets for Dranouter festival 2023 ranged from €56-108 for single day passes and €148-162 for weekend passes. Camping tickets are available for €22-28. The festival offers an accessible and family-friendly atmosphere amidst the picturesque backdrop of West Flanders countryside.
Dranouter encourages people to travel “low-impact” but does provide a paid parking lot. If you're coming with public transportation, you can take the train to the train station of Ieper and from there the bus by De Lijn to Dranouter.
16. Antilliaanse Feesten
The Antilliaanse Feesten is an annual 3-day Caribbean music festival held in Blauwbossen, Hoogstraten in Belgium. The festival features music styles like salsa, zouk, bachata, reggaeton, reggae, soukous, compas, soca, ritmo kombina, cubaton and urban sounds.
Antilliaanse Feesten 2023 edition took place from August 10-12. Antilliaanse Feesten 2024 is scheduled for August 8-10.
The Antilliaanse Feesten typically draws around 30,000-40,000 attendees each year. The festival takes place at the Blauwbossen venue in Hoogstraten.
Antilliaanse Feesten 2023 lineup included artists like Kassav’, Vayb, Patrice Roberts, Jose Alberto and Haila. The artist lineup for Antilliaanse Feesten 2024 has not been announced yet. There are 3 stages on the festival terrain and 1 on the camping.
To get to the festival, visitors can take the train to Hoogstraten and then take the free shuttle bus provided by the festival organizers. Tickets for the 2023 festival ranged from 35 euros for Thursday admission to 170 euros for a 3-day pass with camping. Ticket prices for 2024 have not been announced yet. The Antilliaanse Feesten is known as one of the biggest Caribbean music festivals in the world.
The Antilliaanse Feesten provides a free parking lot right at the festival site and taking the car really is the easiest way to get there.
Alternatively, you can take bus line 600, 602, 605 or 620 from the Rooseveltplaats in Antwerp to Hoogstraten and then the free shuttle bus to the festival. The Rooseveltplaats is a short walk from Antwerp Central Station. If you need to take the train to Antwerp first.
17. Sfinks Mixed
Sfinks Mixed is a 4-day music festival that takes place annually in late July in Boechout, Belgium. It features a diverse lineup of global pop, world music, reggae, folk, jazz, and electronic acts. Sfinks Mixed 2023 edition took place from July 27-30 and welcomed around 75,000 attendees.
Sfinks Mixed 2024 will take place on July 25 till July 28, 2024.
Sfinks Mixed 2023 showcased artists like Bart Peeters, Tanya Stephens, Salif Keita, Yemi Alade, and Son Rompe Pera. Sfinks Mixed 2024 lineup has not yet been announced. There are 3 stages at Sfinks Mixed, including the Main Stage, Club Stage and a Kid's Stage.
To get to Sfinks Mixed, public transportation by train, bus or tram is recommended. The festival site is easily accessible from Antwerp. Driving and parking is also an option, with a free parking area provided near the grounds.
One of the unique aspects of Sfinks Mixed is that it has been a free festival since 2013. No entrance fee is charged to attendees. Although, camping is not free. Income is generated through vendor sales and sponsors. The festival emphasizes accessibility, sustainability, diversity and family-friendliness.
Sfinks is a kid-friendly festival, with workshops, storytelling, and performances aimed at children. In 2022, over 200,000 people attended the festival.
There are also plenty of things to do besides watching the performances, such as going to the multicultural market, watching the parades and acrobats or listening to stories from artists from all over the world.
18. Genk on Stage
Genk on Stage is an annual three-day open-air music festival held in the city center of Genk, Belgium. It features a mix of well-known international, national, and local music acts playing rock, pop, and electronic music across multiple stages.
Genk on Stage 2023 took place from June 23-25. Genk on Stage 2024 is scheduled to return June 28-30, 2024 for its next edition.
Genk on Stage typically draws around 100,000 attendees each year. The festival takes place in the streets and squares in the center of Genk, a city located in the Belgian province of Limburg.
Genk on Stage 2023 lineup included major acts like Noordkaap, Daan, and Pommelien Thijs. The full lineup for Genk on Stage 2024 festival has not yet been announced. Genk on Stage features performances across 8 different stages set up throughout the city center, including the Main Stage, Fruit Stage, Factor J Stage, and Hete Kolen Stage.
The festival is free to attend, with no admission tickets required. People can easily get to Genk on Stage by public transportation, as the city is served by train and bus connections, or they can drive and park in the city.
Genk on Stage is just a two-minute walk from the train station of Genk. You can check timetables and get your train tickets online.
If you're already in Genk anyway, stick around for an extra day and visit some of the sights, like the old mining site C-Mine.
19. Listen! Festival
Listen! Festival is an annual music festival held in Brussels, Belgium that features a diverse lineup of electronic music artists. The 2023 edition took place from March 29 to April 2 at various venues across Brussels. Listen! Festival 2024 will take place on March 27 – 31, 2024.
The festival showcases local and international DJs and producers from genres like house, techno, drum & bass, and more experimental electronic styles. The 2023 lineup included Skrillex, Four Tet, Mallrat, Friction, and over 50 other artists across multiple stages. The 2024 lineup has not been announced yet.
Listen! Festival draws tens of thousands of attendees each year. The main festival venues are located in central Brussels, including the Ancienne Belgique music hall, the Beursschouwburg cultural center, and the Brussels Congres train station.
A day pass for Listen! Festival costs around 30-40 EUR. Tickets grant access to all festival venues and stages for that day. Accommodations and transportation to Brussels are separate expenses on top of the festival entrance fee. Keep in mind – there is no camping as it’s a city festival. But the good news is that in 2023, Listen! Festival has partnered with SITB – MIVB to make it easy to get to your favorite venue.
20. Extrema Outdoor
Extrema Outdoor is an electronic dance music festival held annually in Belgium. It features house, techno, and other forms of electronic music. Extrema Outdoor 2023 edition took place from May 26-28 in Houthalen-Helchteren and attracted around 65,000 attendees.
Extrema Outdoor 2024 festival will occur on May 17-19 at Domain De Plas in Houthalen-Helchteren. Past lineups have included major electronic artists like Peggy Gou, Boris Brejcha, Black Coffee, Claptone, and Amelie Lens.
Extrema Outdoor 2023 lineup featured 999999999, Adam Beyer, Amelie Lens, Black Coffee, Joyhauser, Kölsch, Maceo Plex, Pan-Pot, Peggy Gou, and Reinier Zonneveld among many others.
Extrema Outdoor 2024 lineup has not yet been announced. Extrema Outdoor has seven stages. Attendees can take the bus or train to nearby stations in Houthalen-Helchteren and then walk 15-20 minutes to the festival grounds.
Tickets for the 2023 edition started at around 70 EUR for a day pass and went up to around 200 EUR for a 3-day pass with camping. The festival is known for its scenic lakefront location, artistic stage designs, and mix of underground and mainstream electronic music acts over three days.
Camping is available onsite.
21. Fire is Gold
Fire is Gold is an annual one-day electronic music festival held in Antwerp, Belgium. The festival features house, techno, drum & bass, hardstyle and other EDM genres. Fire is Gold took place on September 3rd, 2022. Around 65,000 people attend the festival each year. The event is held at Middenvijver park in Antwerp. The 2022 lineup included DJs like Netsky, Benny Benassi, Knife Party and local Belgian artists. There are multiple stages at the festival dedicated to different music genres like house, techno, drum & bass etc. The festival is easily accessible by public transport as it takes place right in the city center of Antwerp. Trains run frequently between Antwerp Central Station and the festival grounds. Shuttle buses are also organized from the station to the festival. Ticket prices for Fire is Gold have not been announced yet but were around €50 for general access in 2022. VIP tickets with access to special areas cost extra. The festival brings together electronic music fans each year and is considered one of the main events of the kind in Belgium.
You can always take the train to Antwerp Central Station and from there the tram to Antwerpen Schijnpoort Metro Walk, which is less than 15 minutes walking distance from the venue. Get your train tickets in advance to avoid queueing at the station.
Want to spend some extra time in Antwerp before or after the festival? Good idea! I've got a list of things to do in Antwerp to help you plan.
There aren't really any hotels at Linkeroever, but crossing the water takes you straight to Antwerp's historical center where you'll find plenty of places to stay.
22. Voltage Festival
Voltage Festival is an annual electronic music festival held in Zwevegem, Belgium featuring techno, house and acid music. Since 2015, the Voltage Festival in Zwevegem has been one of the best events in the world of electronic music. Typically the festival draws around 6,000 attendees from Belgium and abroad. Voltage Festival 2024 festival is planned to take place from May 9 to May 12, 2024. Previous years lineups featured over 50 artists like Len Faki, Ellen Allien, Anetha, and British Murder Boys across three stages – Anode, Turbine, and Rotor. Voltage Festival 2024 lineup has not been announced.
Voltage Festival is usually help in an abandoned electricity plant, this amazing music festival is a spectacle in every way. From underground DJs to over forty acts performing on three indoor and outdoor stages, this two-day event is one big party.
To get to the festival, the nearest airport is Brussels Airport. From there, take the train to Kortrijk Station, then transfer to a bus to Zwevegem Brandweer. The festival site is about a 12 minute walk from the Zwevegem Brandweer bus stop. Ticket prices in the past were around 25-35 euros for single day passes and 42-50 euros for weekend passes. Camping was an additional 15 euros.
23. We can Dance
We can Dance is an annual electronic music festival that takes place on the beach in Zeebrugge, Belgium. The festival features various genres of electronic dance music including techno, house, disco, and hip hop. In 2023, the festival took place on August 5-6 and August 12-13. The 10th edition of We can Dance will occur on August 3-4 and August 10-11, 2024. Around 60,000 people attended the festival in 2023. We can Dance takes place on Zeebrugge Beach near the city of Bruges in Belgium. The 2023 lineup included artists like Carlita, Diplo, Dixon, Jennifer Cardini, John Talabot, Maceo Plex, Mind Against, and Yade Lauren. The lineup for 2024 has not been announced yet. We can Dance has 7 stages set up on the beach for the festival. To get to We can Dance, you can take the tram from Bruges to the Zeebrugge Strandwijk stop, which is about a 5-10 minute walk from the festival entrance. Ticket prices for 2023 were around 60-65 euros for a day ticket and 100-110 euros for a weekend pass. The festival offers an immersive experience combining electronic music, fashion, and gourmet cuisine in a beach setting.
While in previous editions there have been parking spots available near the festival site, the organization warned that they're limited. More information about parking spaces for the 2022 edition hasn’t been released yet. A less stressful way to get there might be to take the train to Zeebrugge train station, which is close to the festival site. You can get your transportation tickets online.
24. Brussels Summer Festival
The Brussels Summer Festival, also known as BSF, was an annual music festival held in Brussels, Belgium. It features a diverse lineup of music including jazz, rock, pop, hip hop, and electronic. Brussels Summer Festival 2021 edition of Brussels Summer Festival took place from August 18-22 in downtown Brussels. The festival will not scheduled to return for 2024. Brussels Summer Festival is typically attended by around 60,000 people each year. The main festival site is centered around the Place des Palais, Mont des Arts, and La Madeleine public squares in central Brussels. The Brussels Summer Festival featured artists such as MØ, Rudimental, Christine and the Queens, and Booba. There are three main stages at Brussels Summer Festival along with additional small clubs and venues that host concerts. Public transportation like the metro, buses, and trains can conveniently get you to the Brussels city center for the festival.. The festival was originally started in 2002 by the city of Brussels to promote music and culture during the summer months. Over the years it has grown into a major summer music event that attracts internationally renowned artists and fans from across Europe and the world.
Why don't you spend a night (or two, three…) there and explore the city while you're at it?
You do not want to drive to or in Brussels. Trust me. Just take the train to Brussels Central Station, walk for a few minutes and you're at the festival site. Since you're visiting the city anyway, take the opportunity to see a bit of Brussels before or after the festival.
25. Crammerock
Crammerock is an annual music festival held in Stekene, Belgium. The festival features a diverse lineup of rock, pop, electronic, and hip hop artists from Belgium and around the world. The word “Cramme” refers to the name of the local youth house as the festival was founded when the youth house celebrated its 10th birthday in 1991.
Crammerock 2023 dates are September 1-2, 2023. Crammerock 2024 dates are yet to be comfirmed. The festival typically draws over 30,000 attendees each year.
Crammerock 2023 venue is the Festivalterrein Groeneputte in Stekene, Belgium. The lineup included Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds, White Lies, Selah Sue, Goose, Dimension, Blackwave, Daan, MEROL, Heideroosjes, and others.
Crammerock features three stages for artists to perform on. The Main North and Main South stages are located under one large tent, while the Club Stage is in a separate tent area. To get to the festival, attendees can take the train to Sint-Niklaas Station and then a shuttle bus to the festival grounds. Parking is available nearby.
Tickets to attend Crammerock 2023 cost 70 euros for a weekend pass, 44 euros for a single-day Friday or Saturday ticket, and 16 euros for a camping pass. Tickets are sold online via the festival's website. Food and drinks are purchased with vouchers once inside the festival.
26. Brussels Electronic Marathon
The Brussels Electronic Marathon is an amazing four-day urban music festival that takes place in multiple venues all across the city of Brussels. Experience everything from wonderful musical artists to workshops, lectures, art installations, parties, and other activities for both adults and children. Far more than a concert, the Brussels Electronic Marathon is a multi-level musical experience, showing off some of the best that the city of Brussels has to offer. Over 15,000 people attended this amazing musical marathon in 2019.
27. Fête de la Musique
The 39th Fête de la Musique 2023 took place on June 23 and June 24, successfully with support from artists, cultural networks, volunteers and city institutions. It hosted about 800 free concerts throughout Wallonia and Brussels. Fête de la Musique 2023 showcased the talent of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation artists. The festival remains significant, offering quality cultural music events for free, almost 40 years after its inception. Fête de la Musique 2024 is scheduled from 20 to 23 June 2024.
28. Ommegang
The Ommegang is an annual historical festival held in Brussels, Belgium. It features medieval and Renaissance music performed by costumed musicians playing period instruments like shawms, sackbuts, and cornets. Ommegang 2023 festival took place on June 28th and 30th. Ommegang 2024 dates to be announced. Over 1,400 participants take part in the Ommegang each year. The festival takes place in central Brussels, starting in the Sablon district and processing to the Grand Place. Ommegang 2023 featured French actor Patrick Poivre d'Arvor as the event's narrator. The Ommegang has multiple stages along the procession route for musical performances. To get to the festival, take public transport to the Brussels Central or Sablon metro stations. Tickets to observe the Ommegang cost between 38 and 78 euros depending on seating location. The festival also offers some free viewing areas for those willing to stand. The Ommegang is an annual celebration of Brussels' medieval heritage and features music, costumes, processions, and historical reenactments from the time of Emperor Charles V's Joyous Entry in 1549. Tickets will be available on Ticketmaster.
29. Flower Carpet
The Flower Carpet festival is a biennial event that takes place in Brussels, Belgium. The Grand Place square in the heart of Brussels is decorated with a massive carpet made of around 1 million colorful begonias. The festival does not feature music performances. The Flower Carpet festival 2024 will be held from August 13 to August 16, 2024. Typically around 120 volunteers help assemble the giant flower carpet in under 8 hours on the first day. The event takes place at the Grand Place square in central Brussels. Since the carpets are floral designs, there are no musical acts or performers. The only entertainment is a light and sound show on the opening night. The festival has multiple viewing areas at ground level, and tickets can be purchased to access the balcony of the Brussels Town Hall overlooking the square for a better vantage point. Admission to see the flower carpet at ground level is free. Trains, buses, taxis and walking are all options to reach the Grand Place square where the festival is held. Tickets to access the Town Hall balcony cost around 5-10 euros. In summary, the Brussels Flower Carpet festival is a free biennial flower exhibition that draws crowds to the historic Grand Place square in Brussels through elaborate begonia tapestries rather than musical performances. It is entirely focused around appreciating the impressive temporary floral art installation.
30. Zinneke Parade
The Zinneke Parade is a free biennial multicultural parade and festival held in Brussels, Belgium since 2000. It features a variety of musical styles performed live without amplification, including brass bands, percussion ensembles, choirs and more. The parade took place on May 14, 2022 and will take place again on May 18, 2024. Around 1,500 performers participated in the 2022 edition. Zinneke Parade starts in different squares in central Brussels before converging on the city center. There are no announced performer lineups, as the parade features new acts and collaborations each edition. The parade does not take place on traditional stages, but rather winds through the streets of Brussels. To attend, spectators can line the publicly announced parade route which travels through the center of Brussels, including the Grand Place, Boulevard d’Anspach, and Rue Lombard. There is no cost to attend the Zinneke Parade as it takes place on public streets. The festival aims to showcase the diversity of cultures in Brussels and bring together residents and artists from different communities and backgrounds.
31. Muddy Roots Europe Music Festival
Muddy Roots Europe Music Festival is an annual music festival held in Oostkamp, Belgium that features punk, rock, country, blues, Americana, and bluegrass music. In 2023, Muddy Roots Europe 2023 dates are from September 01 to September 03, 2023 and featured artists like James Hunnicutt, Sean K. Preston, and Bob Wayne. Muddy Roots Europe 2024 festival will take place from June 28 to June 30, 2024. The festival usually attracts around 3,000 attendees each year. Muddy Roots Europe 2023 lineup included artists like The Dad Horse Experience, OldBoy, Reverend Elvis and the Undead Syncopators, Salter Cane, and Mr Plow. Muddy Roots Europe 2024 lineup has not been announced yet. The festival takes place at the Cowboy Up Steakhouse Saloon and features multiple stages, typically three. To get to the festival, Waardamme can be reached by train from cities like Bruges and Ghent. Shuttles are also available from the Waardamme train station. Tickets can be purchased online in advance for around 100 EUR for a full festival pass. Day passes are also available. Camping and hot showers are included with the ticket price. The Muddy Roots Europe Music Festival provides a unique experience for fans of underground Americana music in Belgium each year. The festival celebrates the evolution of roots music with punk attitude and draws dedicated music fans from across Europe.
32. Maanrock
Maanrock or “Moon Rock” is an annual music festival held in the city center of Mechelen, Belgium. It features a wide variety of music genres including rock, pop, hip hop, electronic, and more. Maanrock 2023 takes place from August 25 to August 27, 2023. Maanrock 2024 edition dates are yet to be confirmed. Maanrock typically draws over 100,000 attendees each year. The event is held in the historic downtown area of Mechelen, with stages located in the Grote Markt, IJzerenleen, Botermarkt and other central squares and streets. The 2023 lineup featured Belgian artists like Admiral Freebee, Pommelien Thijs, and Black Box Revelation as well as international acts. The 2024 lineup has not yet been announced. There are several stages scattered throughout the festival grounds. To get to Maanrock, Mechelen is easily accessible by train and is halfway between Brussels and Antwerp. The festival is free to attend.
Maanrock takes place in the city center of Mechelen, at walking distance from the Mechelen train station. It's recommended to come by train as some streets will be locked off. If you'd like to combine Maanrock with a day out in the city, I've put together a list of fun things to do in Mechelen.
It is advised to spend the night before or the night after Maanrock festival at Mechelen.
33. W-Festival
W-Festival is a music festival featuring 80s and 90s music that takes place annually in Oostende, Belgium. W-Festival 2023 edition dates are from August 25 to August 27 at Klein Strand beach. Typically tens of thousands of people attend over the 3 day event. W-Festival 2023 lineup is Village People, Midge Ure, A Flock of Seagulls, The Human League, Nena, Wet Wet Wet, Earth Wind & Fire, OMD, and many more classic pop and new wave acts from the 80s and 90s. Dates and lineup for -Festival 2024 have not been announced yet. There are two main stages at W-Festival – the Main Stage and the Batcave Live Stage. To get to the festival, Oostende is accessible by public transportation like trains, buses, and trams, and the festival site is walking distance from the Oostende train station. Driving and parking information is available on the festival website. Ticket prices for 2023 were 69 euros for a single day pass and 199 euros for a 3 day combo pass. VIP and upgraded tickets were also available. W-Festival provides visitors with a nostalgic musical experience featuring their favorite throwback performers from the 80s and 90s decades, with a scenic beachfront setting in Belgium.
The festival takes place at Ostend Beach, in the province of West Flanders. If you're coming with public transportation, you can take the train to the Ostend central station. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the festival grounds at the beach. You can also get there the bus by De Lijn to Ostend. The bus station is also within walking distance from the beach. There are three parking lots – two for the general public for 10-15€ per day, and a parking space for people with disabilities.
34. Cirque Magique
Cirque Magique is an annual electronic music festival featuring house, techno, and retro music. Cirque Magique 2023 took place from August 11 to August 13, 2023 in Avelgem, Belgium at the Kasteel van Bossuit castle grounds. Cirque Magique 2024 dates are yet to be confirmed. Around 14,000 people attended Cirque Magique 2023 over the three days. The lineup in 2023 included Filterheadz, Youri Parker, CJ Bolland, Franky Kloeck, Jaydee, and more across two stages hosted by Cherry Moon and Age of Love. The 2024 lineup has not yet been announced. There are two main stages at the festival along with smaller areas. To get to the festival, take the train to Roeselare Station then a bus to Avelgem Huis Van Commerce. The bus stop is a 15 minute walk from the venue. Ticket prices in 2023 started at 33.25 euros for a single day pass. Three day passes started at 86 euros. VIP packages and camping passes are also available at an additional cost. Cirque Magique is known for its circus theme with performances, decor, workshops, and more adding to the music festival experience.
35. Meakusma
Meakusma is an annual music festival held in Eupen, Belgium that focuses on electronic, experimental, and avant-garde music. Past Meakusma festivals featured artists like Anthony Naples, DJ Python, Re:ni, Viola Klein, and Gavsborg across multiple venues in Eupen. Meakusma 2023 edition did not take place in 2023. Meakusma Festival 2024 will take place from August 29th to September 1st. Over 10,000 attended the Meakusma Festival in 2022..
The main venue for Meakusma Festival is the Alter Schlachthof, a former slaughterhouse turned cultural center in Eupen. There are multiple stages set up between the two main buildings as well as some outdoor areas. Additional venues used for the festival include churches, museums, and galleries around Eupen.
Eupen is located in eastern Belgium near the borders with Germany and the Netherlands. It's about a 2 hour drive from Brussels. To get to the festival, the nearest airport is Liege Airport, about 60 km away. Alternatively, one can take the train or drive to Eupen.
Tickets for Meakusma Festival were 70 euros for a weekend pass. Ticket prices for 2024 have not yet been announced.
The goal of the Meakusma Festival is to “celebrate the unclassifiable through music, installations, and lectures”. At Meakusma, you are invited to enjoy music in all its various forms, rhythms, and expressions. Experience the sounds of over 80 musical acts and attend special events designed to bring the musical experience home to you on a whole new level. There are interesting workshops, a public soundwalk, and so many more interesting things to hear and experience, three days might not feel like quite enough time.
36. Groezrock
This Belgian punk / emo / ska / rock festival grew from a small event in the town of Meerhout to an international Belgian rock festival that welcomed over 30.000 visitors in 2019. If you're into the harder stuff, this is where you need to go.
Official Groezrock information the future has not yet been announced.
37. Gent Jazz Festival
The Gent Jazz Festival is an annual jazz music festival held in Ghent, Belgium. It features jazz, blues, soul, funk, and other related genres. In 2023, the festival took place from July 5-15. The 2024 festival will take place during a similar timeframe in July. The Gent Jazz Festival draws around 40,000 attendees each year. It is held at the Bijloke site in Ghent. The 2023 lineup included Gregory Porter, Snarky Puppy, Norah Jones, and Herbie Hancock. The 2024 lineup has not yet been announced. There are two stages at the festival – a Main Stage and a Garden Stage.
To get to the festival, public transportation like trains, buses, and trams are recommended over driving and parking downtown. Trains arrive at the Gent-Sint-Pieters station which is about a 15 minute walk from the festival site. Ticket prices in 2023 started around 40 euros for single day general admission. Multi-day passes were around 150 euros. VIP packages with amenities like lounge access and food/drinks were around 300 euros or more per day. Tickets for 2024 will likely be around the same price range depending on the specific options. The Gent Jazz Festival is known as one of the top summer jazz festivals in Europe, bringing thousands of enthusiastic jazz fans to Ghent annually.
The best way to travel to Ghent is by train. The city has two train stations which are both easily reachable from the rest of Belgium: Gent-Sint-Pieters and Gent-Dampoort. It's best to get off at Gent-Sint-Pieters. From there it's just 1 kilometer to the festival site De Bijloke.
Alternatively, you can take tram line 2 or 4 from Gent-Sint-Pieters to stop Bijlokehof, which is just 350 meters from the entrance.
Your festival ticket allows you to freely take the bus and tram to and from the festival site in Ghent.
Except on Sunday, the concerts don't start until late afternoon, so I suggest you come early and spend the day exploring Ghent.
38. Reggae Geel
Reggae Geel is an annual reggae music festival held in Geel, Belgium. It features reggae, dancehall, and dub artists. The 2023 edition took place on August 4-5 at the festival grounds in Geel. Typically over 40,000 people attend Reggae Geel over the two day event. The 2024 festival will take place on August 2 to August 3, 2023 in Geel. The 2023 lineup included Burning Spear, Kabaka Pyramid, Jesse Royal, and Masego on the Main Stage and Chi Ching Ching, King Addies, and Code Red Sound on the Bounce Dancehall stage. The lineup for 2024 has not been announced yet.
There are multiple stages at Reggae Geel including the Main Stage, Bounce Dancehall, Dub Forest, and Yagga Yagga tent. To get to the festival, Geel is accessible by public transportation like trains and buses, and the festival site is a short distance from the Geel train station. Driving and parking information is on the festival website. Ticket prices for 2023 were 48.50 euros for Friday, 58.75 euros for Saturday, and 84.50 euros for a weekend pass. Camping passes could also be purchased separately. Reggae Geel is known as one of the first and longest running reggae festivals in Europe, attracting reggae fans from around the world to Geel, Belgium each summer.
Reggae Geel has been a must for reggae lovers all over Europe since 1979. Each summer, fans of reggae, dancehall and dubstep come to party and hang at this summer reggae festival. The vibe at this festival is very relaxed, although the visitor numbers have really grown the past few years. In 2022, over 45,000 people came to jam in Geel. Some come to see the big artists at the reggae mainstage, others to dance in the dancehall tent and yet others prefer to spend their time in the “dub forest” where there's like a little dubstep music festival going on. This makes it a unique Belgium music festival and an event you can’t miss.
The easiest way to get to Reggae Geel is by car. There are parking lots by the festival site. Information on public transportation will be shared at a later date.
39. Alcatraz Open Air
Alcatraz Open Air is an annual heavy metal and hard rock music festival held in Kortrijk, Belgium. The 3-day festival features metal, death metal, and hardcore punk music. Alcatraz Open Air 2023, the festival took place from August 11-13. Alcatraz Open Air 2024 will occur from August 9 to August 11, 2024. Alcatraz Open Air typically draws around 45,000 attendees each year. The festival is held outdoors at the Lange Munte Sports Campus in Kortrijk. Alcatraz Open Air 2023 lineup included artists like Powerwolf, Trivium, Dismember, and over 100 more bands.
Alcatraz Open Air 2024 lineup has not been fully announced yet. Alcatraz has 4 stages – Prison Stage, Swamp Stage, Helldorado Stage, and La Morgue Stage. To get to the festival grounds, attendees can take public transit to the Lange Munte bus station in Kortrijk. There is also a parking and shuttle available at the Kortrijk Xpo center. Entrance tickets for 2023 cost around 180 euros for a 3-day pass. Camping and VIP options are available for an additional fee. The festival features live music performances, food vendors, merchandise stands, and other attractions across its multiple stages.
Rocking hard since 2008, the annual Alcatraz Open Air Festival gets bigger and better every year. Starting out with only seven bands in 2008, the 2020 line-up for Alcatraz featured over 80 bands.
Among all the festivals in Belgium, the Alcatraz Open Air Festival stands out for becoming a gathering point for European metalheads looking to witness intense performances from their favorite bands.
40. Deep In the Woods
Deep In The Woods is an alternative music festival held annually in early September at the Domaine de Massembre in Heer-sur-Meuse, Belgium. The festival features a mix of electronic, rock, folk, jazz, and experimental music across multiple stages set up throughout the 140 hectare estate. Deep In The Woods is focused on being an intimate, small-scale festival with an emphasis on community, sustainability, and showcasing up-and-coming artists. The festival typically has around 700 attendees each year.
Deep In The Woods utilizes multiple stages set up throughout the forested grounds of Domaine de Massembre. In addition to the music stages, there are outdoor art installations, cinema, food, and wellness activities.
The Domaine de Massembre venue is located in the town of Heer-sur-Meuse in the Namur province of Belgium. It is about a 2 hour drive from Brussels. The nearest train station is in Dinant, about 35 minutes away by bus.
Ticket pricing for Deep In The Woods typically starts around €50 for a weekend pass. Camping accommodations are available on-site for additional fees. Tickets can be purchased online in advance through the festival's website.
Deep In the Woods 2023 was cancelled but the team is trying to bring it back strong for September 2024
41. Belgian Beer Weekend
Belgian Beer Weekend is an annual beer festival held in Brussels, Belgium celebrating the country's beer brewing tradition. The festival features no music acts, focusing solely on beer. Belgian Beer Weekend takes place from September 1st to September 3rd in Brussels' Grand Place. Belgian Beer Weekend 2024 edition will likely occur on the first weekend of September again in the same location. Each year, around 80,000 people attend over the course of the 3-day event. Belgian Beer Weekend takes place in Brussels' UNESCO listed Grand Place city square. As it is a beer festival, there is no artist lineup. Instead, around 50 Belgian breweries large and small attend to serve over 500 different beers to attendees. The event has no stages or music performances. Brussels' Grand Place city square in the heart of the capital is the festival's sole venue. Public transportation like the metro, buses, and trains as well as taxis are recommended to reach the pedestrian-only square. Admission to Belgian Beer Weekend is free, but attendees must purchase tokens to exchange for beer samples. Tokens cost 1 euro each, with most beers requiring 2-4 tokens.
42. Hapje-Tapje
Hapje-tapje is an annual one-day food festival held in the city center of Leuven, Belgium on the first Sunday of August. The festival features local restaurants setting up food stalls to offer small bite-sized portions of their signature dishes for around €5 or less per serving. There are no music acts featured at the festival itself, the focus is solely on the food. Hapje-Tapje 2023 edition took place on August 7th and attracted approximately 20,000 visitors. The festival is scheduled to return on 2024, but date is yet to be confirmed. In previous years before Covid-19, the event would draw 60,000-62,000 attendees. The festival takes place in the streets of central Leuven, primarily the Muntstraat, Oude Markt, and Grote Markt. Since there is no music lineup, the festival instead features the “Bartenders Race” where bartenders compete to pour and carry beer through the streets as fast as possible without spilling. The festival spans multiple blocks but is concentrated around 3 main squares in the city center. Leuven is easily accessible by train from major Belgian cities like Brussels, as well as by car or public transportation. Entrance to the culinary festival is free, visitors just pay for the individual food and drink items they wish to try from the restaurant stalls, usually around €5 or less per serving. The focus is on sampling the local cuisine and discovering new restaurants rather than big crowds or musical acts.
What is the biggest attending festival in Belgium?
The biggest attending festival in Belgium is Tomorrowland. Tomorrowland 2023 was attended in person by over 400,000 people over the two weekends. Tomorrowland 2023 had 16 stages that hosted over 750 artists, bringing together music lovers of more than 200 different nationalities.
What is the biggest rave festival in Belgium?
The biggest rave festival in Belgium is Tomorrowland. Rave music refers to electronic dance music associated with rave culture. Rave music has fast tempo, usually between 120-150 BPM. The fast speed creates energetic, danceable rhythms. Rave music pays attention to the quality and variety of sounds more than conventional song structure.
What is the biggest rock festival in Belgium?
The biggest rock festival in Belgium is Rock Werchter. Rock Werchter is a large rock music festival held annually in late June/early July in Werchter, Belgium. It has featured major international acts across various genres and has a reputation as one of Europe's premier music festivals. Rock music is a broad genre of popular music that originated in the 1950s and '60s. Rock music is a broad category of guitar-driven, band-oriented popular music with a characteristic focus on youthful themes and strong, danceable rhythms. It has proved to be one of the most influential genres shaping today's musical landscape
What is the biggest Electronic Dance Music festival in Belgium?
The biggest Electric Dance music festival in Belgium is Les Ardentes. Les Ardentes is an annual multi-day electro-rock music festival held in early July in Rocourt, Liège. The festival features a high proportion of EDM music shows and artists. Electronic dance music (EDM) refers to a broad range of electronic music genres made primarily for nightclubs, raves, and festivals. EDM music typically has a steady beat and rhythmic feel that is easy to dance to. EDM heavily utilizes computerized and digital production techniques.
What are the best Belgium music festivals to visit in September 2023?
Listed below are the best music festivals to visit in September 2023.
- Crammerock. Crammerock 2023 is scheduled to take place from September 1 to September 2 , 2023.
- Belgian Beer Weekend. Belgian Beer Weekend 2024 is scheduled to take place from September 1 to September 3, 2024.
What are the best Belgium music festivals to visit in March, April and May 2024?
Listed below are the best music festivals to visit in March, April and May 2024.
- Listen! Festival. Listen! Festival 2024 is scheduled to take place from March 27 to March 31 , 2024.
- Voltage Festival. Voltage Festival 2024 is scheduled to take place from May 9 to May 12 , 2024.
- Extrema Outdoor. Extrema Outdoor 2024 is scheduled to take place May 17 to May 19 , 2024.
- Zinneke Parade. Zinneke Parade 2024 is scheduled to take place on May 18 , 2024.
What are the best Belgium music festivals to visit in June 2024?
Listed below are the best music festivals to visit in June 2024.
- Couleur Café. Couleur Café 2024 is scheduled to take place from June 23 to June 25 , 2024.
- Graspop Metal Meeting. Graspop Metal Meeting 2024 is scheduled to take place from June 20 to June 23 , 2024.
- Paradise city. Paradise city 2024 is scheduled to take place from June 28 to June 30, 2024.
What are the best Belgium music festivals to visit in July 2024?
Listed below are the best music festivals to visit in July 2024.
- Tomorrowland. Tomorrowland 2024 is scheduled to take place from July 19 to July 21, 2024 and July 26 to 28, 2024.
- Rock Werchter. Rock Werchter 2024 is scheduled to take place from July 4 to July 7, 2024.
- Dour Festival. Dour Festival 2024 is scheduled to take place from July 17 to July 21, 2024.
- Les Ardentes. Les Ardentes 2024 is scheduled to take place from July 4 to July 7, 2024.
What are the best Belgium music festivals to visit in August 2024?
Listed below are the best music festivals to visit in August 2024.
- Lokerse Feesten. Lokerse Feesten 2024 is scheduled to take place from August 2 to August 11, 2024.
- Suikerrock. Suikerrock 2024 is scheduled to take place from August 2 to August 4, 2024.
- Dranouter. Dranouter 2024 is scheduled to take place from August 2 to August 4 , 2024.
- Antilliaanse Feesten. Antilliaanse Feesten 2024 is scheduled to take place from August 8 to August 10, 2024.
- We can Dance. We can Dance 2024 is scheduled to take place from August 3 to 4 and August 10-11, 2024.
What music festivals haven't announced dates for in 2024 yet?
Listed below are the music festivals that haven't announced dates for in 2024.
- Pukkelpop. Pukkelpop 2024 dates are yet to be confirmed soon.
- Linkerwoofer. Linkerwoofer 2024 dates are yet to be confirmed soon.
- Fire is Gold. Fire is Gold 2024 dates are yet to be confirmed soon.
- Brussels Summer Festival. Brussels Summer Festival 2024 dates are yet to be confirmed soon.
- Ommegang. Ommegang 2024 dates are yet to be confirmed soon.
What is the etiquette while visiting Belgium festivals?
Listed below is the etiquette while visiting music festivals in Belgium.
- Be considerate of others' personal space when moving through crowded areas. Politely say “excuse me” and gently make your way through the crowd.
- Keep your hands to yourself. Do not touch others without their consent. Respect people's boundaries.
- Do not litter. Clean up after yourself. Dispose of trash and recyclables properly. Leave the festival grounds clean.
- Moderate your alcohol and substance intake. Know your limits. Stay in control of yourself.
- Be quiet and attentive during performances. Avoid talking, shouting, or making excessive noise that disturbs those around you.
- Turn off electronic devices during shows. Don't talk on your phone or distract others.
- Dress appropriately according to the event. Follow any dress code requirements.
- Arrive early to avoid late admittance disruptions.
- Bring your own supplies. Goods you might need like water, sunscreen, rain gear, etc. Don't rely on vendors.
- Obey all festival rules and staff instructions. Follow policies on prohibited items, entry procedures, etc.
What to bring to music festivals in Belgium?
The kind of outfit you'll wear will depend on the type of festival you're attending, and the items you can bring will depend on the rules of each festival, but there are some items that are simply a must at every Belgian festival.
Listed below are the things you need to bring to music festivals in Belgium.
- Sunglasses – I have Ray Ban Aviators
- Sunscreen
- Rain jacket or Poncho against the rain
- Paper tissues or Wet wipes
- Power bank for your cellphone
- Layers
- Comfortable shoes
- Backpack or even a fanny pack
- Ear plugs
- Bandages
The above items are just for during the day. If you're staying at a campsite, you'll obviously need a lot more.
PIN FOR LATER
Shirley says
Last year I went to Laundry Day and Marktrock. I would like to go to Tomorrowland, but just one day is enough for me.
Sofie says
One day would be enough for me as well, I think :) Better plan Tomorrowland on time for next year. Tickets sell out suuuuuuuuuperfast!
Lokerse Feesten says
Thanks for having us on this list!
However, we do have a second indoor stage “Red Bull Elektropedia Room”
Could you add this please?
Sofie says
Will do so immediately!
PHF says
Very cool Festivals indeed, but did You Know there are more then 160 festivals in Belgium a year ? here is a tip to Festival lovers in Belgium,
>>> Festbook Belgium <<< we promote all festivals, small & big, and New *
this is not spam, just a TIP *
Sofie says
Lol, the fact that you say it’s not spam, makes it look spammy:D And yes, I’ve heard about Festbook:)
Bram says
Man, you beat me! I was going to do a post like this! I guess I’ll just share yours, then. :-p
Btw, Reggae Geel is ten minutes by bike from where I grew up. Good memories!
Sofie says
That sounds like a plan! :D
I know! I remember you telling me once:) I’ve been a couple of times as well:)
Tim UrbanDuniya says
Oooooh nice post!!! :D Hmm so many to choose from… basically anywhere theres pop or hip hip, I’ll be there.
PS – I’m secretly hoping that UK Garage will make a comeback at some time in my life…. wishful thinking?
Sofie says
I had to Google UK Garage. Don’t shoot me. I know nothing about genre borders :D
Tim UrbanDuniya says
Hehehhehee that’s ok – I forgive you ;) In my mind, it’s still the year 2000 :/
Mirela says
now, i`m amazed!! to say the least, belgium is a festival country… one more reason for me to come again soon!! i`m archiving this post!
great job on making the list
Sofie says
Really? Oh yes, it’s full on here in summer. I’m going to Couleur Café tomorrow :-)
When you move here, you have to try them all!:)
Mirela says
Yeah, I noticed Couleur is starting today. Well, have fun then!
I`m filling with hope more and more.. I`m gonna plan my vacation next year around those dates… Yeaaaaaah!!
Sofie says
Thanks!
Herman Mwalukuku says
I have developed intrest with Music Festivals in Belgium. I have a choir that sings African melodies fron Kenya and will soon be coming to join you in the singing.
Sofie says
Cool Herman!
mariola says
Hi everyone. I was looking for a festival where we can find some Spanish artists, maybe with a flamenco fussion style. Do you know in which festival would I find it? Thanks in advance
Sofie says
Hey Mariola,
I can recommend the Fiesta Rociera which takes place in Vilvoorde every year around pentecost:)
Brussels must have a ton of them too!
Dubyard says
Hi Sofi
I like you’re interest in the Belgium festival scene. I’m from Belgium and there are a few events in your list I didn’t know about and I would like to try next year. Others have been on my yearly radar for a while now.
I don’t know if your interested but together with a small team and a large group of volunteers we’ve been able to organise a non-profit free festival that welcomes people of all ages, called Dubyard.
We do not only offer music but we also try to let people open their eyes to an other way of living, a greener more durable way. We do this through food, workshops, sports, art and markets. We offer only vegetarian and vegan food, all home made.
Of course music is a big part of it. We bring dub music, this isn’t dubstep but more a subgenre of reggae. Instead of working with normal PA systems this culture is proud of their own mostly hand crafted soundsystem culture on which the music is played. At the end of the dancing nights we jam our way through the night at the campfire sessions.
In 2019 we had our 5th edition. We went from 75 visitors on 1 day in 2015 to 3000 attendees last summer. If you want more information about our project, feel free to contact me via e-mail.
Kind regards
Sofie says
Hey Veena,
I’ve heard of it, I think :)
Evelienvp says
Crammerock in Stekene is always a good festival, It has some international artists too, maybe you can add that to the list?
Sofie says
That’s a great recommendation! I’ll see if I can include it in next year’s update, thanks!
Joris says
I’m pretty sure Pukkelpop has a lot more than 67 000 attendees.
Sofie says
Hey Joris!
I rechecked and apparently that was the daily number, but as many people have a combi-ticket, that doesn’t mean that the total of unique visitors is x 4.
According to the organization, there were 79,000 unique visitors this year (2016), so I’ve updated the post to reflect that number:
https://www.hbvl.be/cnt/dmf20160821_02432814/pukkelpop-2016-in-cijfers-79-000-bezoekers-280-uren-muziek-1-woudaap
Thanks for the comment!
wanderlustvlog says
A very nice and complete list, with a good variety of music styles! Great post, thanx!
Sofie says
Thanks a bunch! Glad you like it :)
E Jey says
I never ever knew that Belgium had such a vast opportunity for music lovers. Well narrated and I thoroughly enjoyed the style.
Sofie says
Thanks!
Anubhav says
Great article. Thanks for sharing this.
Sofie says
You’re welcome!
Erns says
What’s happening with Reverze and the continent???
Sofie says
Never heard of those. If they’re festivals, a bit more context would be helpful :)
Zakes Maaya says
When you guys coming to South Africa?
Sofie says
I’ve already been. You can see that if you check the destinations page :)
Nadine says
Hi,
I was wondering where you got all the visitor number information from?
Thanks for the great post! really helpful
Sofie says
Undercover sources ;-)
Glad you liked it!