From acrobatics in the historic City Hall to all-day (and all-night) raves and early-morning performances combining literature with classical music in a peaceful, green setting, here's what to do in Brussels this weekend.
Arts, music and culture
Rouge-Cloître's musical and literary matinées, Maison du Prieur in Auderghem, Sunday 28 July
This morning concert-spectacle, set in the verdant surroundings of the Rouge-Cloître grounds on the edge of the Sonian Forest, combines the art forms of classical music and literature.
The idyllic setting of the event. Credit: Brussels Gardens
This Sunday's performance combines several animal-themed tales from different cultures, accompanied by the music of Hungarian composer Béla Bartók and Italian composer Luciano Berio. Afterwards, the audience is invited into the Maison du Prieur for a hot drink and a croissant.
Find more information here.
Heritage in Motion, Brussels City Hall, various dates
Since the number of guided tours per week has increased, the Brussels City Hall – a jewel of Gothic architecture on the Grand Place – has attracted countless visitors. As part of the City of Brussels' urban three-week summer event 'Plaisirs d'Été', it is hoping to captivate visitors in a new way with video guides.
Credit: City of Brussels
The guides are available in French, Dutch, English, Spanish and German, with routes adapted for adults and children. They offer an immersive and interactive experience, bringing the historic building to life.
As part of the project, orchestrated by the Brussels acrobatic company Back Pocket, four characters, playing roles such as councillor, advisor or diplomat, will guide visitors through locations such as the Council Chamber, the Mayor's Office, and the Wedding Hall, accompanied by acrobatic and choreographic scenes.
Find more information here.
Out and about
UMI Open Air, Place Poelaert, Saturday 27 July
Since opening in the heart of Brussels just a few months ago, night club UMI – branding itself as a cultural hub merging music and art – has been shaking up the capital's nightlife scene. Its first Open Air at Circle Park was proof that its events are the ultimate destination for minimal and groovy music lovers.
Poelaert Open Air organised by Play Label Records at the start of May. Credit: deepinsayd
It is now returning with a second Open Air party at Place Poelaert, an iconic venue for daytime parties, where breathtaking views mix with solid beats. Aline Umber (live), KAYU B2B Poppy and Kappen, among others, will be taking to the decks. Not ready to stop dancing at 22:00? Don't fret: UMI is also organising a Club Event for those in need of an after-party.
Find more information here.
Peruvian National Day, Place d'Espagne, Saturday 27 July
The Belgian flags that were hoisted for the country's National Day on 21 July have already been replaced by Peruvian flags in the city centre for its own National Day. The event, taking place just a stone's throw from Grand Place, brings together the Peruvian community living in Belgium, as well as Latin American and European citizens, to celebrate the independence of the Republic of Peru (28 July).
Event in Liège. Credit: InkaZteca Festival
People in Brussels can have a taste of the country's rich culture, with a wide range of Peruvian and Latin American dishes on offer, accompanied by a musical programme and typical Peruvian dances.
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', brought 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.
