The heart of Brussels, the stunning Grand Place, is poised to transform into a beer lover’s paradise as it readies to host the 22nd annual Belgian Beer Weekend from September 1st to 3rd. This beloved celebration of Belgium’s brewing heritage will transform the Grand Place into a giant open-air brasserie, featuring a lineup of 53 breweries and showcasing over 500 beer varieties.
Since 1998, tourists from every corner of Europe have been attending the event in the first weekend of September. The celebration serves as a testament to Belgium’s illustrious beer culture, offering attendees an opportunity to connect with both renowned and boutique Belgian brewers.
This year’s edition is set to be yet another grand spectacle, with major brewers like AB InBev, Lindemans, and Du Bocq setting up enticing stalls within the square. Visitors will have the chance to savor the craftsmanship of these industry giants, as well as discover hidden gems from smaller, artisanal brewers such as Silly and Royal Swinkels Family Brewers.
Organized by the Belgian Brewers Association, this event holds the distinction of being Belgium’s oldest of its kind, emphasizing the vital role that beer plays in the nation’s “intangible cultural heritage”, as recognized by UNESCO.
“At the Belgian Beer Weekend, Belgian beers and their brewers take the center stage for three days. Both large and small breweries from Belgium present themselves in an open and cozy atmosphere” the organisers stated.
For those planning to attend, entrance to this event is free of charge. To buy beers, attendees can purchase tokens available on the Grand Place. A set of five tokens is priced at €10. The festivities are set to kick off daily at 18:00 and will continue to tantalize taste buds until 22:30 throughout the weekend.
For a touch of tradition, don’t miss the Brewers’ confraternities parade on Saturday at 14:00 and Sunday at 12:15. This picturesque procession will see ancient brewing guilds parading through the square, in their traditional attire.
