Putting a date on when "summer" in Belgium starts isn't as simple as marking a calendar date. Whilst farmers might fix on the hour change at the end of March, 1 June is the official warm season for meteorologists. Meanwhile pagans wouldn't put it before the 21 June solstice.
But regardless of what the clocks say and how the stars align, everyone knows that what really matters is being able to enjoy a glass of Belgium's finest on a terrace with the umbrella serving only as a parasol. Summer might more accurately be described as a mood – one that is nurtured by conditions both natural and imposed.
One of the seasonal yardsticks that certainly encourages a general levity is the seasonal two-for-one train fare introduced by Belgium's rail operator. The Duo Tickets are as simple as they sound and provide a great way to see the country with a friend. This year the offer will be in place for July and August to promote domestic tourism, be it trips to the coast or exploring inland.
In case you haven't fixed any summer plans, here's one more reason to stay close to home.
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1. Putting the Brussels English-language theatre scene in the spotlight
Brussels is rich in English-language theatre, if one knows where to look. The Brussels Times spoke with the city's theatre community to help those looking for performances in English find their way. Read more.
2. Two-for-one: Belgian rail relaunches cheap tickets during summer months
Following the success of previous years, Belgian rail company SNCB is again launching Duo Tickets and the popular Youth Holiday tickets to boost train travel during the summer months. Read more.
3. Brussels Summit scandal: Foreign Minister issues partial apology
Belgium's Foreign Affairs Minister Hadja Lahbib (MR) struck a more conciliatory tone at a parliamentary hearing on Monday regarding her role in granting visas to an Iranian delegation for the Brussels Urban Summit. Read more.
4. New basic package for children's vaccines gives broader protection
The new basic vaccination package for children in Belgium now includes a vaccine protecting against multiple variants of meningococcal disease – putting into practice a 2019 advice from the Superior Health Council. Read more.
5. Go with the FLOW: Brussels open-air swimming pool opens on 5 July
It's time to get the swimsuits out, as Brussels' beloved open-air swimming pool FLOW by the canal in Anderlecht will welcome its first visitors soon. Read more.
6. Wasp-like moth invades Belgian coast
The tamarisk clearwing – an insect that looks like a wasp but is, in fact, a moth – can now be spotted in the branches of plants across the coastal towns of De Panne and Koksijde, Flemish environmental association Natuurpunt reported on Monday. Read more.
7. Hidden Belgium: Vlaeykensgang
An old passage at Pelgrimstraat 8 in Antwerp leads into a network of narrow crooked lanes, small cobbled courtyards and 16th-century houses. This is a hidden corner of the historic city that most people never discover. Read more.
