Imagine yourself strolling through a medieval square in Bruges, breathing in the aroma of freshly made waffles in the air, or tasting an authentic Trappist beer in a cozy café in Brussels. Belgium is the heart of Europe, a country where art, history, and world-class cuisine meet at every corner.
More than a list of dates, this is your strategic guide to savoring the best of Belgium. Your holidays are the perfect excuse to dive into local culture, and we show you the key dates to turn your dream trip into an unforgettable experience.
The Travel Dream: An Itinerary Through the World Capital of Beer and Chocolate
For many, the trip to Belgium is a culinary pilgrimage. The experience of tasting the best beers and chocolates in the world at their place of origin is the soul of any itinerary through the country.
The Sacred Route of Trappist Beer
Belgium is home to 6 of the 11 Trappist breweries in the world. Renting a car and visiting the abbeys where these legendary beers are produced is a unique experience. The Abbey of Scourmont, where the famous Chimay is made, is an iconic starting point. In Brussels, explore beer culture at the Delirium Café, which holds the Guinness record for the most beers available.
Master Tip: Traveling between major cities is easy with the SNCB trains. Buy a "Rail Pass" for 10 trips, which can be shared among multiple people and is much more economical than buying single tickets.
The World of Luxury Chocolatiers
Forget industrial chocolate. In Brussels, visit luxury chocolatier boutiques like Godiva, and Neuhaus (the inventor of the "praline"). Many offer workshops and tastings.
Attention: Many tourist chocolate shops in Bruges and Brussels sell low-quality products at high prices. Always look for established "Maîtres Chocolatiers" brands to ensure an authentic experience.
The Great Belgian Seasons: When to Travel?
The Belgian calendar offers distinct experiences throughout the year. Choosing the right date is essential.
Spring and Festivals (April to June)
The country wakes up from winter with pleasant weather, ideal for exploring cities on foot.
- Easter Monday (Movable Date): A national holiday that creates a long weekend, perfect for a first visit.
- Labour Day (May 1st): Another holiday that allows for city exploration with less traffic.
Summer and National Celebrations (July and August)
The peak of outdoor events and national celebrations, with long days and a festive atmosphere.
- Belgian National Day (July 21st): The most important day in the country, featuring an impressive military parade and fireworks in Brussels.
- Assumption of Mary (August 15th): A perfect summer holiday to explore the Belgian coast.
Regional Holidays: The Cultural Diversity of Belgium
Belgium is divided into three regions (Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels), each with its own identity and holidays.
- Flanders (Dutch-speaking region): Celebrates Flemish Community Day (July 11th), commemorating a historical victory with cultural events.
- Wallonia (French-speaking region): Commemorates French Community Day (September 27th), with concerts and events in cities like Namur and Liège.
The Sacred Calendar: Traditions and Christmas Markets
Religious celebrations in Belgium are social events that unite communities, especially during the Advent season.
- All Saints' Day (November 1st): A solemn day to honor ancestors.
- Armistice Day (November 11th): Tribute to soldiers who died in World War I, a highly respected holiday.
- Christmas (December 25th): The highlight is the "Winter Wonders" in Brussels, one of the largest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.
Belgium's National Holidays Calendar 2025
These are the 10 official holidays ("wettelijke feestdagen" / "jours fériés légaux") observed throughout the country.
| Date in 2025 | National Holiday |
|---|---|
| January 1st | New Year |
| Movable Date | Easter Monday |
| May 1st | Labour Day |
| Movable Date | Ascension |
| Movable Date | Whit Sunday |
| July 21st | Belgian National Day |
| August 15th | Assumption of Mary |
| November 1st | All Saints' Day |
| November 11th | Armistice Day |
| December 25th | Christmas |
Want the Complete Year Vision?
Access our interactive annual calendar to see all holidays, plan your vacations, and organize your year with the full vision.
Access the Annual Calendar of 2025The Secret of "Solden"
Here’s a tip that most guides don’t tell you and that is crucial for shoppers: the concept of "Solden" (in Dutch) or "Soldes" (in French).
Unlike many countries, the sale periods in Belgium are regulated by law and can only occur in two fixed periods: from January 3 to 31 for winter sales, and from July 1 to 31 for summer sales. Planning your trip around these dates is the secret to finding amazing discounts on everything from fashion to chocolates.
Essential Tips for Traveling in Belgium
- Fly to the Heart of Europe: The main airport is Brussels (BRU), hub for Brussels Airlines, offering excellent connections across Europe.
- The Supermarket Experience: For immersion in local culture, explore major Belgian supermarket chains like Delhaize or Carrefour to discover an incredible variety of local beers and cheeses.
- Three Languages, One Country: Be prepared for linguistic diversity. In Flanders (north), the language is Dutch. In Wallonia (south), it is French. In Brussels, both are official. English is widely spoken in all tourist areas.
Conclusion: Belgium, an Unforgettable Surprise
The Belgian Holidays Calendar is your map to unlock the best experiences this fascinating country has to offer. Using these dates as a guide for your trip ensures that you enjoy not only the medieval cities and art but also the world-class cuisine and the welcoming culture that make Belgium a surprising destination.
