The 18th century Parisian tradition that took Brussels by storm, guinguettes are outdoor pop-up bars that gained traction for allowing city-dwellers to relish in the plethora of lavish green spaces with a spot of people-watching.
Worry has surrounded the opening of guinguettes this year due to administrative loops following the lack of formation of Brussels' government for over 10 months.
Guinguette network BARc typically host a range of popular establishments - notably in the parks of Cinquantenaire, Forest, Georges Henri, Rouge-Cloître, La Cambre, and Roi Baudouin.
Finding themselves unable to open due to institutional delays, all are eager to open to the public soon, with the physical structures prepared for parties – but there is still no precise timetable as of yet.
However, as the city gears up for a (hopefully) hot summer, five of Brussels' most cherished park bars have opened and will soon be followed by many more.
Painter Edouard Manet's depiction of socialising at Parisian guinguettes in "Luncheon of the Boating Party"
Hospice Garden (for painterly surroundings)
A bustling scene for nightlife year-round, the scenic heritage Hospice Pacheco site boasts flowing crowds six nights of the week through rain and shine.
Appearing more like an Italian piazza, this renowned architectural garden was built in the early 19th century by Henri Partoes, becoming a safe haven for sick people, just a stone's throw from place Saint Catherine.
Credit: Hospice Garden
The opening of the Hospice's guinguette signifies the summertime in Brussels, offering pétanque, concerts, DJ sets and more beneath a sprinkling of warm fairy lights.
Rue du Grand Hospice 7, 1000 Brussels
Le Flore (to reconnect with nature)
Nestled off the beaten track in the city forest Bois de la Cambre, this charming red-brick cottage has been transformed into an open-air dream complete with in-house DJ's, pouring drinks, and a smash burger stand to refuel.
Credit: Le Flore
Drawing in a hipster adjacent crowd, the welcoming ambiance offers a break from a day of sun-soaking to socialise whilst reconnecting with nature.
Avenue de Flore 3/4, 1000 Brussels
Woodpecker Wolvendael (for family gatherings)
Located in the municipality of Uccle, this forested guinguette delivers a large locally sourced food menu to fulfil all culinary fantasies on an 200 square meter terrace. Equipped with a playground to keep the little ones entertained whilst the party kicks off, the relaxing vibes are unmatched.
Credit: Woodpecker Wolvendael
Live music plays in the evenings and a large (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) drinks selection makes for an ideal spot for birthdays and other large group gatherings.
Avenue Wolvendael 44, 1180 Uccle
Smala (for urban farming fans)
Set in the agricultural plot on the outskirts of Brussels, this laidback venue urges visitors to get test their green fingers and sample delicious regional bites. Perched on a hill and surrounded by greenery, the urban farm is open year long, with a guinguette popping up to share the charm of the location.
Credit: Guinguette Smala
Smala hosts a market each Sunday from 12:00 to 15:00 and offers walks through their vivacious plots throughout the week. Fostering community, their guinguette encourages togetherness over a pint following a day of eco-activities.
Rue de Neerpede, 1070 Anderlecht
Café du Parc Astrid (to follow your evening run)
Astrid Parc's beloved eatery acts as a tranquil setting in the 20th century park named after the late Belgian queen. Home to the Queen Fabiola pavilion, also named after another former Belgian royal, the park hosts outdoor food and beverages for visitors to escape the peak heat whilst still taking in the scenic grounds.
Credit: Café du Parc Astrid
Flex your skills with a game of badminton or pétanque tournament on the lawn and wash down a delectable brunch with a fresh lemonade.
Astrid Park (entrance Square Egide Rombaux), 1070 Anderlecht
