The City of Brussels has announced a festive summer concept, 'Plaisirs d'Été', which will take place for the first time until 6 August. Following on from the 'Plaisirs d'Hiver' Christmas Market, it forms part of the city's ambition to develop a dynamic and sustainable long-term concept to ensure a "permanently vibrant" city centre.
The city has invested €350,000 in the event, which will centre around an "urban garden" on the Place de Brouckère, bringing the pedestrian zone to life from noon to 22:00.
Various "islands", each with a different activity, will encircle a central tower. Here, locals and tourists can sit back to enjoy an aperitif or a snack. From Tuesday to Sunday between 18:00 and 22:00, DJs and bands will perform here (on Mondays there will be a music playlist).
This space will also be dedicated to games and sports, specifically football, hockey, pickleball and spikeball. Also, Pétanque, a kid's course, mini-golf and slacklining will also be available to visitors.
"The idea is to give many people in Brussels who can't go on holiday the chance to try out a whole range of sports," said Brussels Councillor for Climate and Sports, Benoît Hellings. "This is being organised together with local sports clubs, to inspire those who are curious to extend their sporting activities to the rest of the year."
Another venue, Place Fontainas, will become an "XXL artistic bamboo installation". This space will provide an immersive artistic and contemplative experience, the city's councillor explained.
The pedestrian area between Place De Brouckère and Place Fontainas will be embellished with 15 illuminated columns decorated with birds, plants and bamboo.
