The days are getting shorter and the temperatures are dropping, but there are still plenty of things to do in Brussels if you're willing to brave the autumn weather.
From Indian food and guided architecture tours to becoming a forester or immersing yourself in Asian cultures, there is something for everyone.
Amazing Asia Festival, Tour & Taxis, Friday 6 - Sunday 8 November
You don't need to take a plane or suffer from jet lag to feel completely immersed in Asia: for three full days, you can immerse yourself in the scents, colours, and flavours of the East without ever leaving Brussels.
Credit: Amazing Asia
At the iconic hall of Tour & Taxis, participants can can stroll among lanterns, sample everything from sushi to satay, score unique bargains at the typical Asian market, and enjoy performances and workshops that will transport you right to the heart of Asia.
Find more information here.
Brussels Diwali Festival, esplanade of Atomium, Saturday 7 - Sunday 8 November
Diwali, the Indian Festival of Lights, was supposed to celebrate the victory of light over darkness in October, but Storm Austen got in the way. Now, two weeks later, the festival will still bring together cultures, generations and communities around Indian traditions and creativity.
Credit: Brussels Diwali Festival
Highlights will include the Brides of India parade, the Maha Aarti, an on-site temple, dance, rangoli, mehndi and cooking workshops for all ages, as well as a special Avenue of Lights installation. A food village dedicated to India’s diverse regional cuisines will also be set up.
Find more information here.
English-language guided tours, various locations across Brussels, Saturday 7 - Sunday 8 November
Korei is offering three English-language tours for architecture lovers this weekend. On Saturday, the tour starts at the impressive Art Nouveau facade of the newly-reopened Hôtel Aubecq on Avenue Louise.
Hotel Aubecq 3.0, Johan Ortegat. Credit: urban.brussels
On Sunday, two more tours are on the agenda. Visitors can embark on a fascinating journey through time and space at one of the largest urban development projects in Brussels, the Tour & Taxis site. For those looking for something of a smaller scale, Korei is also making its monthly visit to Maison Roosenboom in Ixelles.
Find more information here.
Parade Des Lumières, Bois de la Cambre, Saturday 7 November
As part of the Be Bright campaign, Kidical Mass is organising a big regional Parade of Lights: a family-friendly, festive and colourful procession to show that even in winter, people can get around by bike while staying clearly visible and safe.
Credit: Kidical Mass
Starting at Woodpecker in Bois de la Cambre, young and old can pimp their bike, attend speeches and listen to music while setting off on a bike tour of Brussels. From 19:00, the event switches to party mode, where people can get a last drink before getting home.
Find more information here.
Forest Friends walk, Rouge-Cloître at Forêt de Soignes, Sunday 8 November
As part of the 'Forest Friends' project, people can come and discover the Forêt de Soignes from a forester’s perspective. During this walk, participants can learn about the forest's many roles and the challenges it faces.
Rouge-Cloître. Credit: Visit Brussels / Jean-Paul Remy
The walk is open to the general public, but a minimum age of 17 is recommended. Dogs, the organisation says, are not too keen on all the explanations, and are better left at home. Booking is needed as places are limited.
Find more information here.
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