Public Holidays in Brussels
It's always a good idea to find out what public holidays your destination has to avoid unexpected museum closures or join in the celebrations! What public holidays does Brussels celebrate? Does Belgium have a national day? Find out all of the Belgian public holidays!
Wondering how many public holidays there are in Brussels? Trying to figure out which is the best month to visit Brussels? Read on to find out the dates of Brussels' public holidays.
Public Holidays in Brussels
- New Years: January 1
- Easter: The date varies
- Easter Monday: the first Monday after Easter
- Workers’ Day: May 1
- Iris Festival: May 8
- Ascension: 6th Thursday after Easter
- Whit Monday: 50 days after Easter
- Belgian National Day: July 21
- Assumption: August 15
- All Saint’s Day: November 1
- Armistice Day: November 11 (End of World War I)
- Christmas Day: December 25
What Is The Main Holiday in Belgium?
The most important holiday in Belgium is Belgian National Day, which is celebrated each year on July 21. It marks the historic moment in 1831 when Leopold I was sworn in as the country's first king, officially establishing Belgium's independent constitutional monarchy. The occasion is celebrated across the nation with parades, cultural events, and firework displays, with Brussels at the heart of the festivities.
If you're lucky enough to be in Brussels for Belgian National Day, you'll get to witness the city's especially vibrant celebrations. The day begins with a Te Deum service attended by the royal family, followed by a military parade along Rue de la Loi, showcasing Belgium's armed forces and emergency services. Throughout the city, you'll find concerts, street performances, and open-air activities that bring locals and visitors together.
As night falls, the festivities culminate with a spectacular firework show over the Parc de Bruxelles, lighting up the sky above the Royal Palace.
Which Is The Best Month to Visit Brussels?
When planning a trip to Brussels, July is often considered the best month if you'd like to catch the city's biggest public event, Belgian National Day on July 21. It's worth noting, though, that crowds are larger, and some services may be affected around the celebrations.
May is another good choice, with Labour Day, May 1, and the Iris Festival, May 8, offering cultural activities, though public offices, banks, and some shops may close on these dates.
No matter when you choose to visit, we recommend checking the opening hours of attractions on public holidays to avoid disappointment.
