Surrealism in full bloom at Brussels’ Flowertime 2023

The Town Hall of Brussels will be transformed into a surrealist floral wonderland from August 11^th to 15^th, for the fifth edition of Flowertime. This biennial event, which alternates with the Flower Carpet on the Grand-Place, invites lovers of flowers and architecture to (re)discover the splendid Town Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Since 2023 celebrates the 125^th anniversary of René Magritte, for this year’s edition, 23 teams of floral artists from Brussels, Wallonia, Flanders, and abroad will pay tribute to Belgian surrealism and its great masters. The event, jointly organized by the non-profit association Tapis de Fleurs de Bruxelles and Floraliën, will once again crown Brussels as the floral capital of Europe.

“Brussels stands as the birthplace and global hub of surrealism. This year, the city is reviving this rich legacy through Flowertime. With the participation of talented floral artists from all corners of the world, the iconic Town Hall will undergo a breathtaking transformation,” explains Delphine Houba, President of Tapis de Fleurs de Bruxelles and Brussels’ Alderwoman for Culture, Tourism and Major Events.

It’s a splendid way to commemorate the 125^th anniversary of Magritte’s birth.

Delphine Houba, Brussels Alderwoman for Culture, Tourism and Major Events

During a dreamlike, flower-filled tour that lasts around 45 minutes, visitors will have the opportunity to discover this gem of Gothic architecture from a different perspective. It promises to thrill the senses and question our perception of the world around us.

“Surrealism is an artistic movement known for its unusual, dreamlike images and for combining different elements in surprising ways. The florists have applied this concept to their floral creations, creating a captivating and enchanting atmosphere,” explains Pieter Toebaert, General Manager of Floraliën and Artistic Director of Flowertime. For Toebaert, this it the perfect opportunity for florists to express their creativity and push the boundaries of floral design.

This year, two more rooms have been added to the Flowertime route: the Mayor’s Office and the provisional Council Chamber. Keeping with the surrealist theme, there will also be a “monumental” surprise on the Grand-Place.

In addition to Flowertime, Brussels Major Events is launching two other events at the same time: Brussels in Bloom and The View Tower Experience. Brussels in Bloom is a free flower trail that leads participants through the streets surrounding the Grand-Place from August 1^st to 15^th. The View Tower Experience allows visitors to climb the 200-step spiral staircase to access the Town Hall Tower and admire a 360-degree panoramic view of Brussels.

The opening hours of Flowertime will be from 2 pm to 6 pm, for the first day, August 11^th, with last admission at 5.30 pm. For the following days, until the 15^th, it’s possible to attend the event from 10 am to 7 pm, with last admission at 6.30 pm. Tickets are €10, when booked in advance, and €12, when purchased on site. For The View Tower Experience it’s possible to buy tickets separately or a combined ticket that also includes Flowertime.