Brussels may appear to be in a mid-summer lull, but there are still plenty of fun activities happening in and around the capital to enjoy.
With a buzzing city centre of dance battles, DJ sets in the beautiful Bois de la Cambre, salsa sessions and more, here is what is on in Brussels this weekend.
Arts, music and culture
'Plaisirs d'Été', Dansaert, until 18 August
Brussels city centre is once again transforming into a hub of summer fun with a wide range of free events for three weeks. The second edition of 'Plaisirs d'Été' – the counterpart of its Christmas event 'Plaisirs d'Hiver' – will this time be devoted to dance. With an urban garden, free concerts and much more, the events aims to create a "permanently vibrant" city centre.
Credit: Plaisirs d'été
The second week will offer a dance show by artist Jules Rozenwajn from 19:00 to 20:00 on Friday, a free dance floor by Supreme Cypher from 16:00 to 19:00 on Saturday and finally an exhilarating krump dance battle by Che'za Street from 16:00 to 20:00 on Sunday.
Find more information here.
Drinks in the woods, Le Kiosque, Friday 2 August
'In the Woods' aims to "create a space where everyone can find themselves, connect and savour the simple joy of a shared moment." This summer, the organisers have lined up another busy agenda of immersive and convivial experiences in the heart of the beautiful Bois de la Cambre, ranging from stand up to jazz and DJs.
Credit: in the WOODS
On Friday, people can come along for an evening of food, drinks and music, with DJ Mr Serge on the decks from 20:00. Entrance is free and no booking is required. Bring extra layers though as the evening may get a little chilly.
Find more information here.
Salsa dancing with Tamba, The Backyard, Sunday 4 August
UK-based salsa dancer Tamba is offering an exciting three-hour workshop this Sunday to help people level up their social dancing, focusing specifically on technique, connection and musicality.
Credit: Tamba / Facebook
Participants will be able to learn a dance routine, improve their musicality and rhythm, and increase their connection with their partner. This workshop is for people with at least one year of experience.
Find more information here.
Out and about
Brussels Vintage Market, Reset, Sunday 4 August
As well as many museums opening for free, the first Sunday of the month also marks the return of the renowned Brussels Vintage Market on Rue de Ligne in the city centre. The monthly event is a true thrifter's paradise and is not to be missed.
Credit: Brussels Vintage Market
This market opens the way to a diverse set of sellers, gathering an eclectic mix of vintage from every corner of the industry. Sunday strollers of all budgets can peruse what's on offer or simply sit with a beer, enjoy the live DJ and take in the lively atmosphere.
Find more information here.
Further afield
Around the world in 80 days performance, Château de Beloeil, until 18 August
Belgium has many castles – the largest number by square kilometres. However, one castle stands out in its offering. From this weekend, Château de Beloeil in Hainaut is presenting a new family show based on the world of Jules Verne, a prolific 19th-century writer considered to be the father of science fiction.
The magical gardens will set the scene for the performance. Credit: Visit Wallonia
This unique production of the famous story 'Around the world in 80 days', produced by Luc Petit, brings the story back to life on the grounds of the castle. More than 100 performers tell the story of the phlegmatic Phileas Fogg, as well as other characters such as the eccentric Passepartout, the brave Indian princess and the fiery cowboys.
Find more information here.
