Festival Calendar
Planning to come to Brussels but not sure when? Maybe this festival calendar will inspire you! There is always something happening here, but some events might attract you more than others. For extra information about events check the agenda on the page or for the very complete agenda (used by the locals) check www.agenda.be
 Winterjazz Marni-FlageyWhen: 15/01/2013 - 26/01/2013
What: THE winter rendez-vous for jazz lovers. Flagey and the Théâtre Marni offer an invigorating cocktail of Belgian and foreign jazz artists, young and established, and films about jazz.
Where: théâtre Marni & Flagey
Info: www.winterjazz.be
 Djangofolllies.When: 17/01/2013 - 27/01/2013
What: A tribute to Django Reinhardt, organized by the vzw 'De Vrienden van Brosella'. Django is the founder of gypsy swing (a combination of jazz with musette and gypsy music) and exceptional guitar player, a musical icon of the 20th century.
Where: The festival takes place in 14 different venues all over Belgium (Brussels: 17 to 19 January)
Info: www.brosella.be
 BRAFA- Brussels Antiques & Fine Arts FairWhen: 19/01/2013 - 27/01/2013
What: Jewelry, furniture and other antiquities, tribal art, oriental art, engravings, ancient and modern paintings, contemporary art, books and photographs are once again on display in this exceptional location, where the quality of the pieces is guaranteed by the valuation committee's strict assessments. This is the place to be for curious visitors and serious collectors alike.
Where: Tour & Taxis
Info: www.brafa.be
  Art Truc-Troc.When: 01/02/2013 - 03/02/2013
What: This really original exhibition always attracts crowds to the Centre for Fine Arts. No money changes hands: visitors put post-its beside the work they want, offering everything from two tons of coal to a ten-year-old Saab to DIY services to a weekend in a holiday apartment.
Where: Palais des Beaux-Arts - BOZAR
Info: www.tructroc.be - www.bozar.be
 ProPulse: Le nouveau Rendez-vous des Arts de la Scène!When: 04/02/2013 - 09/02/2013
What: This festival, organized for the first time in 2012 by "la Fédération Wallonie-Bruxelles" offers a window on the performing art skills of contemporary artists, both Belgian and international. An ambition is to create a platform where artistic directors and up-and-coming artists can get in contact. The classical and contemporary music performances take place in Flagey; theatre, dance, street and circus arts will be performed in 'Les Halles de Schaerbeek' and finally Botanique will host rock, pop, jazz, world and urban music concerts!
Where: Flagey, Halles de Schaerbeek, Botanique
Info: www.propulsefestival.be
 AnimaWhen: 08/02/2013 - 17/02/2013
What: The Anima international festival is THE rendez-vous for the latest in cartoon films, animation at its best, sharpest, weirdest and wildest. With over 200 screenings of all genres, some films not yet premiered, an Animation Night to remember, and to round off the event, award of the golden Cartoon d'Or, this festival has become a major event in its category.
Where: Flagey
Info: www.animafestival.be
 Affordable Art Fair (AAF) BrusselsWhen: 21/02/2013 - 24/02/2013
What: The new Brussels edition of the Affordable Art Fair hosts more than 90 Belgian and international galleries.
Where: Tour & Taxis
Info: www.affordableartfair.be
 PerformatikWhen: 22/02/2013 - 25/02/2013
What: This Brussels performance art biennale is organized by Kaaitheater in association with Argos Centre for Art & Media, Beursschouwburg, Bozar, CC Strombeek, CENTRALE for contemporary art, Q-O2, Wiels Contemporary Art Centre. This year’s guests include Turner Prize-winner Martin Creed, while the French choreographer Boris Charmatz, Meg Stuart, Philipp Gehmacher, and Vladimir Miller join forces for a production at the Centrale.
Where: different venues
Info: www.kaaitheater.be
 Foire du livreWhen: 28/02/2013 - 04/03/2013
What: They say people don't read anymore. But then what do they know? President Roosevelt called books the guiding lights of civilisation. Cicero said a room without books was like a body without a soul. So if you're searching for a little light and soul, check out the Brussels book fair.
Where: Tour & Taxis
Info: www.flb.be
 Festival Lesbien Gay Bi TransWhen: 28/02/2013 - 09/03/2013
What: A festival offering films, discussions, a book fair, and parties at various locations in Brussels and elsewhere in Belgium.
Where: Cinéma Vendôme
Info: www.fglb.org
When: March – June 2013
What: Since 1998 the beginning of March has been the signal for a new series of the now famous VW Spring Sessions, a festival that offers a fascinating voyage through a range of diverse genres, from tango to hip hop and jazz.
Where: different venues
Info: www.vwspringsessions.be
 Museum Night Fever.When: 02/03/2013
What: See elsewhere on the youth page (unless it has passed of course). A one night Museum Festival! Around twenty museums stay open until 1 or 2 am, attracting young people in huge numbers for an offbeat programme: a strong and sparkling winter cocktail of exhibitions, concerts, performances, fashion, workshops and DJs! featuring museums as you've never seen them before, with a contemporary and unconventional twist! And for those of you who will still be brimming with energy even after the museums have closed their doors, the night will go on at the Bulex afterparty.
Where: Different museums in Brussels + after party (Bulex)
Info: www.museumnightfever.be
 Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour When: 05/03/2013 - 07/03/2013
What: Adventure and expedition films you won't want to miss!
Where: Wolubilis
Info: www.banff.be
 Offscreen Film FestivalWhen: 07/03/2012 - 25/03/2012
What: The Offscreen Film Festival is the indispensable gathering for film fans with a taste for the unconventional. This annual, non-competitive event is a showcase for independent and unreleased films, cult classics and offbeat genres from around the world.
Where: Cinéma Nova, Cinematek, Rits, Beursschouwburg
Info: www.offscreen.be
 Ars Musica.When: 08/03/2013 - 24/03/2013
What: Ars Music is one of the ten leading international festivals of contemporary music. Each year it offers an opportunity to discover what is going on in new music in Belgium, in Europe, and worldwide.
Where: Different places in Brussels and Belgium
Info: www.arsmusica.be
 EuranticaWhen: 13/03/2013 - 24/03/2013
What: This indoor fair features collection objects presented by 150 antique dealers and art galeries from all over Europe. The eclectic range of objects includes furniture, sculpture, clocks, weaponry, glasswork, ceramics, art nouveau, art deco, coins, and pre-Columbian art.
Where: Brussels Expo
Info: www.eurantica.com
 Festival Passa PortaWhen: 21/03/2013 - 24/03/2013
What: A biennial literary festival that is open to the world and believes in exchange and dialogue. Takes place at a variety of venues around the city.
Where: Divers lieux
Info: www.passaporta.be
 BIFFF Brussels International Fantastic Film FestivalWhen: 02/04/2012 - 13/04/2012
What: An opportunity to discover quality horror, science fiction, and thrillers - films to get the adrenaline going and the heart beating faster. Past award-winners have included The Last House on the Left, Dog Soldiers, Dark City, Ringu, The Butterfly Effect, and Dark Waters.
Where: BOZAR
 HOPLA! The celebration of circus arts BrusselsWhen: around the tenth of April
What: The circus enters the heart of Brussels during 'Hopla!'. Artists from all over the world bring performances inside and outside or within a circus tent. There are activities for all ages. The City works together with the Maison du Cirque for this event.
Where: Place Sainte-Catherine and around
Info: www.hopla-cirk.be
 Le Brussels Tango FestivalWhen: 11/04/2013 - 15/04/2013
What: The Tango Festival offers demonstrations and beginners’ classes in a variety of venues, not just onstage, but also in metro stations and quiet corners in city parks.
Where: different venues
 Opening of the Royal GreenhousesWhen: 19/04/2013 - 12/05/2013
What: Designed by the architect Balat (Victor Horta's teacher), these greenhouses are one of Brussels' most remarkable monuments. This magic place will please both aficionados of 19th century architecture and green-fingered plant enthusiasts. These highly impressive greenhouses with their soaring ironwork are home to a wide range of flora and many rare species.
Where: Laeken
Info: www.monarchie.be
 Festival Lezarts Danses UrbainesWhen: 15/04/2013 - 17/04/2013
What: A festival that showcases the creativity of the hip-hop scene, including choreography, concerts, DJ sets, and live drawing.
Where: CC Jacques Franck
Info: www.lezarts-urbains.be
 Stoemp !When: Mid April / Beginning of June
What: Pop and rock doesn’t always have to be about gigantic festivals and stadium concerts - as this series of concerts in bars and cafes shows.
Where: Different bars in the centre
Info: www.stoemplive.be
 Compil d’avrilWhen: 16/04/2013 - 20/04/2013
What: Compil d'Avril keeps loyal to its concept and brings you once again a crossover of dance in relation with music, performance, video… In 2013 Compil d'Avril will focus on young dancers and choreographers.
Where: la Raffinerie
Info: www.charleroi-danses.be
 Art Brussels.When: 17/04/2013 - 21/04/2013
What: Almost 200 galleries from over 20 different countries take part in this Brussels contemporary art fair. Of particular interest to collectors, critics, journalists, and curators, but very much accessible to anyone interested in today's art. The result is a diverse collection of many different forms of contemporary art.
Where: Brussels Expo
Info: www.artbrussels.be
 OFF-Art Fair BrusselsWhen: 17/04/2013 - 21/04/2013
What: Art Brussels has been joined by a little brother that welcomes professionals, art-lovers, and collectors in the imposing Brussels stock exchange building
Where: Brussels stock exchange building (La Bourse)
Info: www.off-artfair.be
 Festival Courants d’airsWhen: 17/04/2013 - 21/04/2013
What: For five days in April of "Courants d'airs 'and will blow the Arts Conservatory and the capital Brussels! Students display their many projects combine various disciplines such as theater, music, singing, contemporary circus, visual arts, dance and video. This will be an opportunity to discover new designers. Future actors, musicians, singers of tomorrow are probably among them...
Where: Royal Arts Conservatory of Brussels
Info : www.conservatoire.be/courantsdairs/cda.html  Slick FairWhen: 18/04/2013 - 21/04/2013
What: The prestigious Parisian art fair comes to Brussels, offering a selection of 50 galleries, Belgian and international, that promote avant-garde talent.
Where: Wide Gallery
 Balkan Trafik Festival When: 18/04/2013 - 21/04/2013
What: Each annual edition of Balkan Trafik presents a sample of the best that south-eastern Europe has to offer. A festive event including music, theatre, film, workshops, activities, and much more, all weekend long at the Centre for Fine Arts, transformed for the occasion into a cross between a popular celebration, a bazaar, and a beehive!
Where: Palais des Beaux-Arts-BOZAR
Info: www.faronet.be
 Poppositions Art FairWhen: 18/04/2013 - 21/04/2013
What: POPPOSITIONS is an off-fair taking place during Art Brussels. POPPOSITIONS = PROPOSITIONS of POP-UP galleries and organisations, conceived especially for the fair space. It showcases works of artists proposed by galeries and organisations working with site-specific exhibitions. Instead of mimicking larger art fairs and their white cube, a small selection of artworks will be presented in deliberate interaction with a unique architectural setting, the former brewery of Wielemans-Ceuppens, Brass. After using the space of still functionning Brussels Congress station in 2012, POPPOSITIONS will this year take hold of Brass with the aim of establishing a critical and edgy alternative to the prevailing format while nurturing high artistic standard and international appeal.
Where: Brass - CC de Forest
Info: poppositions.com
 Journée du patrimoine culturelWhen: 21/04/2013
What: A celebration of our Cultural Heritage, traditionally held on the first Sunday after the Easter Holidays, focussing on the movable (objects) and the intangible (stories, traditional techniques and skills). Free access. This year’s theme is "Stop the time"
Where: Different places in Brussels
Info: www.faronet.be
 Trouble FestivalWhen: 23/04/2013 - 27/04/2013
What: A 5 days International art performance festival!
Where: Les Halles de Schaerbeek
Info: www.halles.be
 Brussels Short Film Festival.When: 24/04/2013 - 04/05/2013
What: More than 300 short films from 40 countries. Discover the cream of world production with our international and national competitions, marvel at the films of great directors, surprised you meet projections Very Short Trash and of course the inevitable Best Of sessions!
Where: Cinéma Vendôme, Bozar
Info: www.courtmetrage.be
 Brussels Comedy FestivalWhen: 27/04/2013 - 04/05/2013
What: French en Belgian comedy talents on stage! If you understand French you’ll be in stitches till it hurts!
Where: théâtre 140
Info: www.cmireb.be
 Les Nuits Botanique.When: 03/05/2013 - 12/05/2013
What: Probably the best popular music event of the year in Brussels. A series of concerts with established, up-and-coming, and unheard-of artists - all good. Music and food available, outdoors if the weather permits - the first barbecue of the year, you could say.
Where: Botanique & Cirque Royal
Info: www.botanique.be
 Kunstenfestivaldesarts 013When: 03/05/2013 - 25/05/2013
What: A cosmopolitan, contemporary, multidisciplinary, multilingual festival of performance and visual arts. Lasts three weeks and is backed by a number of local cultural venues and organizations.
Where: Different places in Brussels
Info: www.kfda.be
 Iris CelebrationWhen: 03/05/2013 - 04/05/2013
What: Concerts and fireworks displays on the Place des Palais the whole weekend. Sunday is dedicated to the Street Festival: dozens of artists, mostly from Brussels perform in themed situations during the day. The area around Rue du Lombardstraat, seat of the Brussels parliament, is home to a relaxed bash aimed at (but by no means restricted to) the capital’s one million inhabitants. Under the aegis of the iris, the city’s mascot flower, a host of mini-festivals will offer pop-rock, jazz, and classical music as well as street entertainment for children and their parents.
Where: Brussels' city centre and around
Info: www.fetedeliris.be
 Queen Elisabeth Music Competition 2013 - pianoWhen: 06/05/2013 - 01/06/2013
What: This competition that awards young virtuous pianists, violinists and singers is unique in the world, not only because of its importance, its influence, but also because of the difficulty of the tests, the prestigious jury, the strict rules (a rigid points system excluding any favoritism) and especially its originality, the Queen Elisabeth competition is one of the major cultural events of Brussels.
Where: BOZAR & Flagey
Info: www.cmireb.be
 Festival of EuropeWhen: 09/05/2013
What: A declaration by Robert Schuman on 9 May 1950 marked a key moment in Europe's development. Having the European institutions here means putting up with demos and traffic restrictions for summits, but it also means you can visit their HQs.
Where: The European institutions, the European neighborhood
 FiEstival de MaelströmWhen: 09/05/2013 - 12/05/2013
What: : A young participative poetry festival with more than 50 poets and artists who gather around a common artistic project.
Where: Espace Senghor
Info: www.fiestival.net
 Pride Day BrusselsWhen: 18/05/2013
What: This annual event, celebrated around the world - in Brussels it now includes a parade, concerts, and shows - has its roots in the Stonewall riots in New York in June 1969, which grew out of a protest against police brutality to gays. Things have changed a lot since. The Belgian Pride Week takes place from 13 till 19 May.
Where: The city centre
Info: www.thepride.be
 Brussels Jazz Marathon.When: 24/05/2013 - 26/05/2013
What: The tried and trusted formula remains unchanged. Over three days, a range of famous and not so famous jazz musicians will perform on four open-air stages and all evening long in a host of clubs and cafes.
Where: Different places in Brussels
 20 km of BrusselsWhen: 27/05/2013
What: Whether you're a jogger, an athlete, or anything but, this event has something for you. You could run, with 25,000 others, along the city's finest avenues. Or just watch, applaud, and stroll around the stands set up for the occasion.
Where: Esplanade du Cinquantenaire
Info: www.20km.be
 CulinariaWhen: 30/05/2013 - 02/06/2013
What: Culinaria is the world’s most prestigious gastronomic event, featuring tastings, workshops, etc., with top chefs.
Where: Tour & taxis
Info: www.culinariasquare.com
 Millenium-Festival international du film documentaireWhen: 31/05/2013 - 09/06/2013
What: With the backing of the UN, this festival of documentary film, attended by many directors, aims to promote the Millennium Goals via discussions, talks, and screenings of more than 50 films.
Where: Flagey, CIVA, cinéma Vendôme
 Roller-Bike ParadeWhen: June till September
What: Every Friday from June to September, starting from Place Poelaert at 7 pm, the Parade wends its way around the city in safety (streets and roads are blocked off for it).
Where: starting point at Place Poelaert
Info: www.belgiumrollers.com
 Asian Art In Brussels - BAAF - BruneafWhen: 05/06/2013 - 09/06/2013
What: Three festivals in one. The Sablon district is filled with a huge array of works of art from the Ancient world, the Orient, and the non-European art world. You can take a break from the galleries to rest a while at a sunny pavement cafe or have a bite to eat.
Where: Sablon
 OUT LOUD !When: 05/06/2013 - 29/06/2013
What: A month of free evening film screenings, concerts, and parties on the Beursschouwburg’s rooftop terrace. The bar, which serves tapas, opens at 5 pm.
Where: Beursschouwburg
Info: www.beursschouwburg.be
 Brussels Film Festival.When: 19/06/2013 - 26/06/2013
What: Now a regular fixture in the Flagey building, the Brussels Film Festival has put its troubles behind it and is poised to turn into a truly European event. The programme features a mixture of short, medium and full-length films, with special emphasis on new work. On the warm summer nights when the festival takes place, the Flagey lighthouse illuminates the lives of all film fans.
Where: BOZAR & Flagey
Info: www.brff.be
 Jazz Jette JuneWhen: 21/06/2013
What: This annual jazz festival in the Brussels borough of Jette, launched in 1990, attracts about 5,000 spectators every year.
Where: divers lieux
Info: www.jazzjettejune.be
 Fête de la Musique.When: 21/06/2013 - 23/06/2013
What: This midsummer music festival was originally a French idea, but has now spread worldwide. In Brussels it lasts for four days. The big stars appear on the Place des Palais, but there are lots of other events in different locations.
Where: Different places in Brussels (and Wallonia)
Info: www.fetedelamusique.be
 Festival Musiq’3When: 28/06/2013 - 30/06/2013
What: The Musiq'3 Festival, which first saw the light of day in 2011, offers thirty 45-minute concerts over three days. As well as music, there will be fringe activities, including films, workshops, and lecture concerts.
Where: Flagey
Info: www.festivalmusiq3.be
 Festival Couleur CaféWhen: 28/06/2013 - 30/06/2013
What: World music enchants some and irritates others. The organizers of Couleur Café take great care to offer us only the highest quality music, food, and visuals. There are also activities relating to issues such as sustainable development.
Where: Tour & Taxis
Info: www.couleurcafe.be
 PlazeyWhen: 30/06/2013 - 07/07/2013
What: A very convivial, super cozy and free festival in the Elisabeth park of Koekelberg, organized by three Flemish cultural centres: street theatre, barbeques, concerts and sport initiations are awaiting you.
Where: parc Elisabeth
Info: www.plazey.be
 Les apéros UrbainsWhen: whole summer on Friday evenings
What: Each Friday eve on a different location you can go to an open-air get-togethers offering music, atmosphere, and aperitifs called 'Apero urbain'. The philosophy is to allow people to discover new places and especially to meet after the daily working rush. Often there is an official after party which means free access to a club!
Where: Each time a different location
Info: www.aperos.be
 Recyclart Holydays.When: Every Thursday & Friday of July and of the first week of August
What: Recyclart Holidays is the summer festival organized by arts centre Recyclart in and around the old train station Brussel-Kapellekerk/Bruxelles-Chapelle. Every Thursday and Friday night, from June 30 till August 5, it's time to party, to socialize, to eat and to drink! The programme consists of concerts, Dj sets, films and documentaries, workshops, exhibitions, performances - interspersed with pétanque and bakery workshops! Thursday nights are for free, Friday nights cost only 5 euro.
Where: Inside and in front of Recyclart
Info: www.recyclart.be
 Festival Midis-Minimes.When: 01/07/2013 - 31/08/2013
What: The festival Midis-Minimes once again offers an eclectic programme of lunchtime (35-minute) concerts, both “classical” and world, every weekday at the Royal Conservatory of Brussels
Where: Conservatoire / Conservatorium
Info: www.midi-minimes.be
 Ommegang
When: 02/07/2013 - 04/07/2013
What: Breathtaking folklore, magic and animations. More than 1400 performers will help you relive a history (1549, the procession of Charles Quint) under the vigilant eye of the director Giles Daoust who will oversee sound and light for the sixth year in a row.
Where: La 'Grand-Place'
Info: www.ommegang.be
 Brussels On SeaWhen: 05/07/2013 - 11/08/2013
What: Just imagine: a beach of fine sand, coconut palms, pétanque areas, cocktail bars, straw huts... and yet you're in Brussels. The cobbled quays of the canal have been turned into a beach with the help of imported sand, palm trees, and straw huts. City dwellers flock to this waterfront paradise to show off, sunbathe, play a game of beach volleyball, cool off under the fountains, or simply sip a fruit juice cocktail under a straw parasol. Some evenings are open for live music beneath the starry skies: almost a month of sunshine and chilling out in the heart of the capital.
Where: At the canal, Yser
Info: www.bruxelleslesbains.be
 Bruxelles fait son cinémaWhen: 10/07/2013 - 20/07/2013
What: Eleven free open-air film screenings in different locations around the city. A chance to discover interesting films and unfamiliar corners of Brussels.
Where: different venues
Info: www.liberationfilms.be
 Gulden OntsporingWhen: 11/07/2013
What: The celebration of the Flemish community in Belgium, meaning concerts organized by the Ancienne Belgique and a lot of activities.
Where: The city centre
When: 12/07/2013 - 18/08/2013
What: A gigantic annual funfair in the streets around the Midi/Zuid railway station. Traditional fairground attractions and snacks - and the latest dizzying hi-tech rides
Where: Boulevard du Midi
Info: www.foiredumidi.be
 Brosella Folk & JazzWhen: 13/07/2013 - 14/07/2013
What: Brosella Folk & Jazz, also known as plain Brosella, is a two-day festival, held every year since 1977 at the Théâtre de Verdure, near the Atomium. Relatively well-known folk and jazz groups play in a festive atmosphere, sometimes more centred on beer than music.
Where: Théâtre de Verdure
Info: www.brosella.be
 Mini-Europe " By Night "When: Half July till half August
What: With its 300 detailed models, including Big Ben, Venetian gondolas, bullfights in Seville, and an erupting Vesuvius, Mini-Europe can take you all around Europe in a few hours. Located at the foot of the Atomium, the park is a wonderful place for a family visit, and at night it's truly magical.
Where: Mini-Europe
Info: www.minieurope.eu
 Festivities for the National DayWhen: 21/07/2013
Quoi: Belgium’s national day is celebrated with a whole range of activities organized by Belgian and European institutions and organizations. The police, the fire brigade, the army, and the Red Cross will all be present to explain their work. Earlier, there is the military parade; the day ends with a fireworks display.
Where: Le parc de Bruxelles / Le parc royal
Info: www.sibp.be
 B-UnitedWhen: 21/07/2013
What: Folk and world music organizers Muziekpublique join in the celebration of Belgium's national day with special festive concerts. In addition to the – free – concerts there will be fringe activities and world cuisine.
Where: The renovated Place de la Monnaie
Info: www.muziekpublique.be
 Visit the royal palaceWhen: end July - beginning of September
What: You can only visit the Brussels Royal palace during the summer. Every seat, ceiling and mirror are more decorated than a wedding cake. Of course, it's a palace. The special treat is that Belgian artists were allowed to decorate some of the rooms. The mirror hall by megalomaniac artist Jan Fabre is the biggest attraction: 1.500.000 glowing green dead beetles carefully pinned to a ceiling.
Where: The royal palace
Info: www.monarchie.be
 Bruksellive.When: 27/07/2013
What: Bruksellive is a free festival organized by the Brussels' youth clubs. Everybody is welcome at Bruksellive, including young families. In the kids village children can have the time of their lives while their parents enjoy a show on one of the tree stages.
Where: Théâtre de Verdure (open air amphitheatre + park)
Info: www.bruksellive.be
 Brussels Summer Festival.When: 08/08/2012 - 18/08/2012
What: This festival is entering new territories by embracing drama and street theatre but music remains at the core of this popular festival, which features events staged in a variety of venues across the city, from concert halls to trendy urban neighborhoods. 20 euros for 10 evenings , and most of classic museums are included in the price so you won't get bored during daytime!
Where: Different locations in Brussels
Info: www.bsf.be
 PleinOPENairWhen: 3 weekends in August
What: The PleinOPENair festival will takes place this summer along the Canal with a busy schedule for the month of August. It is a festive and sustainable event that incites consciousness about, interaction with and reflection on the city. Lots of concerts, performances, walks, movie screenings, food .. always on a forgotten, set-aside piece of ground.
Where: Different places in Brussels
Info: www.nova-cinema.org
 ClassissimoWhen: 09/08/2013 - 18/08/2013
What: Classissimo injects a dose of classical music, which it aims to take to a wider audience, into the Brussels Summer Festival.
Where: At the stock Exchange building (la Bourse)
Info: www.classissimo.be
 Festival international des BrigittinesWhen: +/- 15/08 - +/-01/09
What: Since it began in the 1970s, this contemporary performing arts festival has become one of the highlights of the Brussels arts world. The aim is to showcase contemporary works that are accessible to everybody. The exhibition is held in a baroque chapel that dates from 1652.
Where: Les Brigittines, Contemporary Arts Centre for Movement
Info: www.brigittines.be
 Festival Théâtres NomadesWhen: 22/08/2013 - 25/08/2013
What: The theatre company ‘La Compagnie des Nouveaux Disparus’ sets up a real nomad village in the royal park. During 4 days, near the big fountain you can enjoy around 50 performances, ranging from street theatre to circus and storytelling. All for free!
Where: Parc Royal
Info: www.theatresnomades.be
 Fiesta LatinaWhen: 23/08/2013
What: A chance to explore Latino traditions, rhythms, colours, and flavours. Concerts, DJ's ; parties, pavement cafes, mercadillos and more. A lot depends on the Brussels weather, of course.
Where: avenue Louise
Info: www.fiesta-latina.be
 L’Orgue d’aoûtWhen: 24/08/2013 - 31/08/2013
What: This annual August festival of early music focuses on the organ, but also features singers and instrumental ensembles. The lighting is kind of special.
Where: Eglise Notre-Dame de la Chapelle
Info: www.voceorgano.be
 FeeërieënWhen: 26/08/2013 - 30/08/2013
What: Welcome to this new sparkling edition of the Feeërieën. As ever, a customized menu for musical connoisseurs & outdoor cocooners. The Royal Park in Brussels will be transformed again into a fairytale forest filled with supernatural music as the audience watches in awed silence. A first-class music programme. Very intimist and rather melancholic atmosphere!
Where: Le parc de Bruxelles (Parc Royal)
Info: www.abconcerts.be
 The Belgian beer weekendWhen: 30/08/2013 - 01/09/2013
What: The Beer Weekend includes ceremonies in the cathedral and the town hall, but it is the "interactive" side of the event that attracts beer-lovers in their thousands to the Grand'Place/Grote Markt, where Belgian breweries of all sizes will have stalls. There will also be a parade of historic brewery carts and beer wagons.
Where: Grand’Place
Info: www.weekenddelabiere.be
 TheaterfestivalWhen: End of August / Beginning of September
What: Every year, the Theaterfestival selects the most relevant productions from the past season. Altogether the jury members watched at least 500 performances, from children’s and youth theatre to dance and musical theatre. From these they chose the best ten productions, which are now being shown once again for everyone just before the start of the new theatre season.
Where: Kaaitheater
Info: www.theaterfestival.be
 KlarafestivalWhen: 30/08/2013 - 13/09/2013
What: Organized jointly by the Flanders Festival Brussels and the Flemish cultural radio station, Klara, the KlaraFestival opens the Brussels classical concert season at a variety of city venues over a fortnight. The line-up includes opera and celebrated international orchestras, as well as premieres and innovative multidisciplinary productions.
Where: Different venues
Info: www.klarafestival.be
 Design SeptemberWhen: 01/09/2012 - 30/09/2012
What: Throughout the month, Design September presents dozens of events in the city centre, looking at design in the broadest sense – from furniture to household appliances to architecture – via talks, exhibitions, films, discussions, visits, walks, and even flea markets for vintage design.
Where: Different places in Brussels
Info: www.designseptember.be
 Prix DécouverteWhen: In September (dates not fixed yet)
What: Every two years the Prix Découverte is awarded to a contemporary Belgian artist, who is given an opportunity to make his or her work known to the public.
Where: Centre d’Art de Rouge Cloître
Info: www.rouge-cloitre.be
 Marni Jazz FestivalWhen: In September (dates not fixed yet)
What: This jazz festival - open to all kinds of jazz, with international talent alongside Belgian performers - gets the new concert season off to a flying start.
Where: théâtre Marni
Info: www.theatremarni.com
 Memorial Van DammeWhen: 06/09/2013 - 07/09/2013
What: Each year in late summer, the world's best athletes meet in Brussels for what is quite simply one of the best meetings of the circuit. An event that with each new edition drains his harvest of medals and records.
Where: King Baudouin Stadium
Info: www.memorialvandamme.be
 Comics FestivalWhen: 05/09/2013 - 08/09/2013
What: Brussels will be invaded by comic strips! Sound and light show and fireworks on the Place Royale Saturday eve, the Balloon's Day Parade on Saturday afternoon, comic strip park on the Place des Palais, visit and special animations at the Belgian Comic Strip centre, Comics guided promenades in the centre of Brussels, animations in the comics book shops, etc...
Where: The city centre
When: 07/09/2013 - 08/09/2013
What: Founded in 2002, the Brussels Design Market is a sort of flea market devoted to design, for the most part from the 1950s to the early 1980s. A hundred or so exhibitors from all over Europe, as well as professionals and design-lovers, will guarantee an atmospheric occasion.
Where: Tour & taxis
 Heritage days 2012When: 14/09/2013 - 15/09/2013
What: This weekend, Brussels is more than ever one big museum. Every year, the Heritage Days focusses on a different aspect of the Brussels urban heritage. A unique opportunity to see inside private houses, businesses, and public institutions that are otherwise rarely accessible.
Where: Different places in Brussels
Info: www.monument.irisnet.be
 FolklorissimoWhen: 14/09/2013 - 15/09/2013
What: This folklore festival will feature battles of the (brass) bands, a ball on the Grand-Place/Grote Markt, a parade of “giants”, a craft market, and a folk village and procession on the Saturday.
Where: La Grand'Place
Info: www.brupass.be
 Car-free SundayWhen: 15/09/2013
What: The first one was in France in 1998. On 15/09, from 10 till 6pm we have already the 10th edition of the Car-Free day in Brussels which has become a great success . The centre becomes a giant play garden and everyone celebrates sustainable mobility! That’s true: that day, the kings of the road are rollerbladers, pedestrians, joggers, bikers and so on. Loads of activities and animation on the menu as well!
Where: Everywhere in Brussels
When: 15/09/2013
What: The car-free Sunday is very popular in Brussels and “Brussels Country” is an undeniable high point, bringing the countryside into the heart of the city, with added entertainment, stands, and a variety of activities.
Where: Place des Palais
 Brussels Museum NocturnesWhen: 26/09/2013 - 19/12/2013
What: Spending your evening in a museum certainly makes a change from working up a sweat on a dance floor or going to a concert. Every autumn Thursday a number of Brussels museums stay open late, with guided tours and rare opportunities to talk to curators and see behind the scenes.
Where: Different museums in Brussels
 Skoda jazz FestivalWhen: October-November
What: Skoda takes over the Audi Jazz Festival! Numerous concerts held in various Belgian cities with jazz, blues, world music, avant-garde and hip hop. This festival will welcome many international stars.
Where: Different places in Brussels
Info: www.skodajazz.be
 Europalia.indiaWhen: 03/10/2013 - 26/01/2014
What: Last time out it was Brazil; before that the focus was on China in 2009. Now the biennial Europalia festival turns to another of the BRIC countries, India, with a wide range of events all over Belgium. From October to February, the festival will explore all aspects of Indian culture and the Indian arts scene: music, the visual arts, cinema, literature, design, fashion, food, you name it...
Where: Different locations in Belgium
Info: www.europalia.eu
 Nuit BlancheWhen: 05/10/2013
What: The perfect occasion to discover "Brussels by night"! With concerts, theatre, exhibitions, guided tours, parties etc. - in all about 150 activities - everywhere around the city, you're in for a true "blank night". All that's left for you to do is compose your own personal route...
Where: Different places in Brussels
 Biennale Art nouveau & Art décoWhen: 05/10/2013- 27/10/2013
What: During the four weekends of October 2013, Voir et Dire Bruxelles will invite the public to discover the architectural variety of both Art nouveau and Art deco, two major styles of Brussels’ architecture, as well as initiate art lovers to modernism. Each weekend, about fifteen places will be open to holders of a special pass in several districts: outstanding hotels, private houses, apartments, school buildings, industrial or public buildings,… in total more than sixty places that open exceptionally. Different sites linked to Henry Van de Velde will also be accessible to celebrate the famous architect’s 150th birthday. (Visits are organised in French, Dutch, English and, in some places, in German. Moreover, a series of walking, bike or bus tours are scheduled.)
Where: Different locations
 Brussels MarathonWhen: 06/10/2013
What: "Nenikekamen" ("We won!") cried Pheidippides, before dropping dead from exhaustion. He had just run 40 km from Marathon to Athens, to tell his people of their victory over the Persians. Since then, the marathon race has had various incarnations, of which the Brussels Marathon is one. We're not suggesting you die. You needn't even run - just go and watch the brave Pheidippidean souls.
Où: L'Esplanade du Cinquantenaire
 Brosella Guitar FairWhen: 13/10/2013 ou 20/10/2013
What: A major event for guitar-lovers, instrument-makers, and musicians, which attracts visitors from all over Europe.
Where: Brussels Expo
Info: www.brosella.be
 Festival des Libertés.When: October or November
What: Framework of communications, protest and artistic creations, the "Festival of Liberties" is the global expression of our permanent action of defense of rights, liberties and values of the universal democracy. As political and cultural event, the festival proposes films, debates and conferences, concerts, theatrical performances and exhibitions to a large public. Symbolically political observatory of the situation of the rights and liberties in the world, the festival is also a place of testimony and convergence of the democratic fights.
Where: Theatre National
 FIFI – Festival of the Independent FilmWhen: Beginning of November
What: This Brussels festival hosts independent film-makers from all over the world. A bracing homage to freedom and originality.
Where: CC Jacques Franck
 Pink Screens. When: 07/11/2013 - 16/11/2013
What: Bold and subversive, Pink Screens is the only film festival in Belgium that challenges, in a plural and non Manichean way, issues about gender and sexualities, with a twist of honesty, humor and curiosity. Pink Screens Film Festival is organized by volunteer association Genres d'à Côté and considers queer theories and themes with a cinephile angle, exploring original and taboo-free cinematography from all over the world.
Where: Cinéma Nova
Info: www.nova-cinema.org
 Ice sculpture FestivalWhen: 13/11/2013 - 19/11/2013
What: This brand new festival of sculpture in snow and ice will see a number of creative people go to work with saws, drills, cutters, hammers, chisels etc. to create ephemeral works of art - which will have to be preserved at a temperature of - 6°C. Some of the artists polish their works with irons, apparently. A mystery central theme for this exhibition with a difference will be announced just before the event.
Where: unknown yet
Info: tba
 Nocturnes du Sablon / Nocturnes van de ZavelWhen: 21/11/2013 - 24/11/2013
What: You'd have to be a real wet blanket not to get caught up in the festive atmosphere of these end-of-year celebrations. A night-time stroll around the Sablon/Zavel area will certainly get your yuletide juices flowing. Decorated with delicate lights and red carpets and overflowing with champagne, it's a great place to buy presents and get into the holiday mood.
Where: Sablon/Zavel
Info: www.sablon-bruxelles.com
 Autumn FallsWhen: 25/11/2013 – 01/12/2013
What: Autumn Falls is a weeklong music festival taking place in the city centre of Brussels. Prepare to enjoy a wide variety of quality alternative music from many different backgrounds, all while checking out the city’s various renowned concert halls and trendy clubs. If you are passionate about music, this is a must-see.
Where: Different venues in Brussels
Info: www.autumnfalls.be
 Winter WondersWhen: 29/11/2013 - 05/01/2014
What: The city celebrates the end of the year with a large European Christmas market that spreads through the cobbled streets and squares around Grand Place. The downtown quarters are transformed with fir trees, a Christmas crib, music and special lighting. To add to the festive mood, there will be a Ferris wheel on Place Sainte-Catherine and an ice skating rink on the Marché aux Poissons.
Où: Place Sainte-Catherine, Grand'Place, Marché aux Poissons et autour de la Bourse
Info: www.winterwonders.be
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VW Spring Sessions
Midi Fair
Brussels Design Market
Brussels Country (Bruxelles champêtre / Landelijk Brussel) 
