While this weekend's Car-Free Sunday will likely be dominating the agendas of most Brussels residents, there are plenty of other activities and events to enjoy in the Belgian capital this weekend.
With 'King Car' making way for pedestrians and cyclists, Sunday is an ideal occasion to head the first edition of the 'I Love Ecuador Festival' in Parc du Cinquantenaire, or even try some plant-based products at the Vegan Food Festival!
Arts, music and culture
Heritage Days, various locations, Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 September
In line with this year's Art Nouveau theme, the Brussels Heritage Days will invite visitors to discover the capital's rich architectural heritage under the banner 'Art Nouveau, art for all?'.
Brussels is home to more than 1,000 Art Nouveau buildings, many of which will be put in the spotlight by the rich and varied programme of guided tours and cultural events, including the reinterpretation of Brussels' Art Nouveau architecture through the circus and acrobatic arts.
Credit: Urban Brussels
These will shed light on the emergence of this architectural style and its lasting influence, as well as the origins and particularities of the materials used, challenges in conserving these buildings, and whether the style still influences the way in which people live in the city today.
Many other must-see monuments and museums will also be included in the programme.
Find out more information here.
'I Love Ecuador Festival', Parc du Cinquantenaire, Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 September
A momentous occasion will take place this weekend, as the very first edition of the 'I Love Ecuador Festival' will be organised in the capital's most iconic park.
Credit: I Love Ecuador Festival
Ecuadorian culture will be at the heart of Europe and visitors will be invited to travel to South America's western coast during the free two-day event. Enjoy traditional dances and performances by DJs and bands and tuck into delicious Latino treats, while children play on bouncy castles and with piñatas.
Find out more information here.
Out and about
Vegan Festival, Vismet, Saturday 16 September
Brussels' biggest vegan celebration will return this weekend, bringing together plant-based foodies and conscious consumers who are looking to learn more about a vegan lifestyle. The delectable food on the event's menu will sway even the most avid meat-lover.
Credit: Vegan Festival Brussels
Aside from the many dishes on offer, there will be live music performances, engaging workshops and yoga classes, as well as stands selling cruelty-free cosmetics, innovative clothing brands, and sustainable lifestyle products. Join this celebration of all things vegan on one of the capital's most scenic squares.
Find out more information here.
100th-anniversary Brocante, Rue de Flandre, Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 September
While there will be plenty of brocantes strewn across Brussels this weekend on the occasion of Car-Free Sunday, the flea market on Rue de Flandre stands out as it is celebrating its 100th anniversary. The first such brocante on this street – which was also the first in the region – dates back to 1923.
The Rue de Flandre flea market has become one of the most emblematic in Brussels, in part due to its long history and location in the historic centre, but also because of its welcoming atmosphere and wide range of goods on offer. To mark the anniversary, there will be an exhibition at the Bellone featuring old and new posters, as well as various old photos and newspaper articles from the period.
Find out more information here.
Something different
Folklorissimo, Grand Place, Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 September
The Fête des Folkores, 'Folklorissimo', is most commonly known for the procession of giant puppets which take over Brussels' historic Grand Place. This year, it has even more cultural events, discoveries, tastes and surprises in store.
Credit: City of Brussels
From a participatory choir inviting the public to sing folk songs to concerts and brass bands, a folk race, and even crossbow shooting in the city centre, this event will keep you on your toes. Catch your breath while enjoying drinks and culinary specialities.
Find out more information here.
International Microorganism Day, Brussels Museum of Natural Sciences, Saturday 16 September
For the occasion of International Microorganism Day, the EU-funded project CIRCLES is putting on an event for citizens young and old to learn about microbes in a fun and engaging way through interactive activities.
People will be taught how to make their own kombucha or make living organism art pieces. Visitors will then receive test kits to collect and sample microbes in their houses and learn about the invisible life that surrounds them every day.
Find out more information here.
