Nivelles hosts its traditional Pentecost agricultural fair on 9 June, offering families a chance to see farm animals up close, meet farmers, and explore their equipment, in the city centre.
The event will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It will feature equestrian shows, cattle contests, and various other activities.
The agricultural fair has a long history, dating back at the very least to 1825, when a royal decree authorised two horse fairs per year in Nivelles, making the 2025 edition the 200th fair. However, local authorities acknowledge that horse fairs likely existed before 1825, although they would have borne little resemblance to the current event.
The Pentecost agricultural fair celebrates Nivelles and regional farmers, highlighting local products and fostering connections between the agricultural community and the public.
This year, the cattle contest will gather over a hundred animals near the collegiate church towers, while horses will perform on a sand track set up on the Grand-Place. The Federation of Young Farmers (FJA) will showcase its “farm in the city” and offer tastings.
Families will also be able to see small livestock, sheep, shearing demonstrations, cow milking, and sheepdog training in the city centre.
Modern farming equipment and vintage tractors will be exhibited throughout the day.
