Now that activities in the EU quarter have ground to a halt for summer, many residents have left the city to enjoy the holidays. But there are still plenty of fun activities happening in and around the capital to enjoy.
From discovering the only traditional puppet theatre still operating in Brussels to street art and all things Colombian, or even exploring one of Brussels' many museums for free on the first Sunday of the month, here is what is on in Brussels this weekend.
Art, music and culture
'Carmen', Royal Theatre Toone, until Saturday 30 August
Just a stone's throw away from Grand Place, the Royal Theatre Toone is the only traditional puppet theatre still operating in Brussels and was awarded the European Heritage Label last year in recognition of its significant role in European history and culture. The rod puppet poechenelles represent "four centuries of folk tradition" and "an art that promotes fundamental values such as education for all, freedom of expression, social cohesion and links between generations."
The Théâtre de Toone. Credit: Belga
This summer, the theatre is staging Georges Bizet's famous opera 'Carmen' with a Brussels twist. Head along for what is sure to be a very entertaining production – and you might even pick up some of the city's dialect too!
Find more information here.
Les Berges Poétiques, Étangs d'Ixelles, Sunday 3 August
Puppetry and circus skills will also be taking to the streets of Ixelles for the third Sunday of Les Berges Poétiques festival, which celebrates street art at its best, popping up where least expected and transforming the urban space.
Credit: Les Berges Poétiques / Steve Rottiers
From 11:00 to 15:00, audiences of all ages can enjoy contemporary puppetry with 'Coeur de patate', in which Jeanne Guillou tells the story of a cruel and tender encounter between a hungry and lost vagrant and an old potato. From 13:00 to 17:00, prepare to be blown away by the mesmerising 'Disco Balance' circus show, featuring acrobatics, pole dancing, and 1970s disco dancing.
Find more information here.
Out and about
Colombia Village Festival, Bois de la Cambre, Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 August
For 13 years, this festival has been bringing a flavour of Colombia to the Belgian capital, and it is now an important fixture in the vibrant Latino cultural calendar.
Colombia Village in 2022. Credit: Dylan Carter/ The Brussels Times
There will be a host of activities to choose from at Colombia Village, from live concerts, traditional shows, and children's entertainment to Latin DJs, urban artists and a variety of food stalls from different Latin American countries. Don't miss out on soaking up the sunny South American atmosphere!
Find more information here.
Brussels Vintage Market, Reset, Sunday 3 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, including clothing, accessories, jewellery, vinyl records, small furniture, toys and decorative objects. 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
The Trolls & Legends Summer Festival, Mons, Saturday 2 August
The enchanting Trolls & Legends summer festival is back for its fifth edition this Saturday in the Walloon city of Mons, promising an array of fun, free activities for young and old.
Credit: Trolls & Légendes
There will be concerts, a craft market and workshop, games for all ages, axe throwing, storytelling, face painting and a bouncy castle – making it the perfect day out for all the family. Drinks and snacks will also be available on site and delicious artisanal products will be on sale at the market too.
Find more information here.
