The Brussels Renaissance Festival (BRF) kicks off on Sunday. For eight weeks, the Belgian capital will be celebrating European heritage and Brussels’ history during the Renaissance.
The Brussels festival focuses on the period when Emperor Charles V ruled over much of Europe and chose Brussels as his principal residence. A whole range of events and activities is planned during the BRF.
The festival begins on Sunday at the Coudenberg Palace with a Family Day. Young and old alike can immerse themselves fully in Brussels’ Renaissance past amidst the remains of Emperor Charles V’s palace. The programme features a journey into the past with crossbow shooting, dressing up in historical costumes, Spanish fencing, crafts, Breugel-themed games and much more.
This year, the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula is celebrating its 800th anniversary. This is being marked under the name Gudula26. There are guided tours organised, focusing on the stained-glass windows and the interior. During the BRF, visitors can enjoy special evening tours.
The annual Ommegang folklore festival, with a historical parade and show, takes place on Wednesday 1 and Friday 3 July. During this period, visitors can visit a Renaissance Market in the Sablon district, featuring a range of high-quality products from days gone by. The crossbow shooting competition will be held there on Wednesday and Friday.
The Brussels Renaissance Festival runs until 4 July.
The Ommegang historical parade in Brussels in 2025 © BELGA PHOTO MARIUS BURGELMAN
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