Our top picks for the best things to do in August in Brussels and the surrounding area

Through August 23, Boulevard du Midi welcomes the grand return of the Foire du Midi with its 130 attractions, must-try treats, and the lively atmosphere that keeps Brussels buzzing all summer long. This year’s event notably features two new thrill rides: “Mission Impossible ,” an 80-meter free-fall tower, and “Hurricane,” a hair-raising ride that promises plenty of adrenaline. With a Ferris wheel, bumper cars, croustillons, and churros, it’s the ultimate summer outing to enjoy with family or friends.

On August 12, Chalet Robinson is back with its Open Fire Dinner, a big barbecue party held on its island in the heart of the Bois de la Cambre. After the ferry ride across, enjoy a generous buffet of wood-fired grilled meats, salads, and a live waffle bar—all in a summery atmosphere with music, pétanque, and the option to rent a pedal boat. Since space is limited, it’s best to book quickly to enjoy this gourmet getaway that almost feels like a vacation without leaving Brussels.

Nestled along the former railway tracks of Tour & Taxis in Brussels, a unique urban concept is reinventing neighborhood life. In this beautiful summer of 2026, ParckFarm is establishing itself as the must-visit destination for community solidarity. This summer of 2026, the schedule promises to be particularly exciting for visitors looking to unwind. Every Wednesday at noon, the Cuisine Voisine collective offers community lunches with Mediterranean flavors. Afternoons give way to “Green Wednesdays” and a multitudeof creative or culinary workshops focused on wild plants and herbalism.

From August 14 to 22, the Beerlab rooftop will set up shop on the roof of La Bourse to keep the energy of the Brussels Dance Festival going. Every Friday and Saturday, from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., a different Brussels-based collective takes the turntables: KULTURA Brussels kicks things off on August 14 with an avant-garde selection, Afrobase sets the stage ablaze on August 15 with Afrobeats, Amapiano, and Dancehall,Check Club makes its debut on August 21 with Martin Vachiery blending Afro-Caribbean sounds, rap, and Baile Funk, andMadame Moustache wraps up the month on August 22 with a festive and eclectic set . A friendly atmosphere, panoramic views of Brussels, and great music are guaranteed until the end of the night.

From August 28 to 30, the Vaux Hall will host POMPOMPOM, the Brussels festival entirely dedicated to craft cider. Around twenty Belgian and European producers will offer tastings of their ciders—from the most classic to the most original—in a festive atmosphere punctuated by concerts, DJ sets, and a grand opening banquet (reservation required). With free admission and its lush, green setting, it’s the perfect event to discover a drink that’s off the beaten path before the start of the school year.

Dive into the heart of a reenacted investigation and explore the psychological mechanisms of serial killers. Among the most intriguing experiences to enjoy in Brussels, “Mind of a Serial Killer” offers, starting July 18, an immersive exhibition featuring a scripted tour with over 20 stops: from the reenactment of a criminal investigation to the psychological analysis of famous cases. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the minds of history’s most notorious serial killers.

As it does every year, the Ancienne Belgique team takes over Brussels’ Parc Royal with its free festivals. Feeërieën is a nighttime open-air music festival that invites international alternative artists to perform live in an intimate and magical setting. The Bar Chaud festival, meanwhile, features hip-hop workshops, skateboarding lessons, battles, concerts, and DJ sets in the afternoons. These events are must-sees of the Brussels summer.

They’re back again—the ever-popular Candlelight concerts! Returning with a lineup that’s more dazzling than ever. This summer, on August 29 at the beautifully decorated Concert Noble, you can choose between Coldplay vs. Imagine Dragons—a showdown—and Queens, for a memorable evening of music, enhanced as always by the flickering glow of thousands of candles.

In August, extend your Brussels evenings by treating yourself to a sensory journey atthe Indian Food Festival, the free event that brings the Cinquantenaire Park to life. With the aroma of spices, dance performances, and outdoor concerts, this must-see event invites you to enjoy a vibrant experience—perfect for a unique outing in Brussels. Let yourself be tempted by the authentic flavors of Indian street food and yoga workshops for a complete immersion in the heart of the capital. A festival not to be missed for exploring Indian culture while enjoying the festive and friendly atmosphere of August.

Head over to WOM (World of Mind), a museum where nothing is what it seems! Amid optical illusions and mesmerizing sets, kids can test their perception and senses through mind-blowing interactive installations. It’s also the perfect refuge when temperatures rise, keeping everyone cool and comfortable!

Through September 27, the Festival Bruxellons! takes over the magnificent Château du Karreveld in Molenbeek for more than two months of theater, musicals, and outdoor performances. This 28th edition features the flamboyant musical *Kinky Boots*, as well as Belgian productions, comedies, one-woman shows, and concerts in a charming historic setting. It’s a great idea for a summer outing to enjoy the balmy August evenings while discovering the best of the French-speaking theater scene.

Following the international success of the exhibition *The World of Banksy*, the temporary exhibition has become a permanent 900-square-meter museum: the Banksy Museum. Since its opening, it has been constantly packed. On Rue de Laeken, step inside the premises of a former textile factoryand embark on an immersive journey into the world of the world’s most anonymous street artist! From his early days in urban art to his latest controversial pieces—including a reproduction of the Walled Off Hotel in Bethlehem—discover Banksy’s work in a breathtaking permanent exhibition featuring over 120 pieces!

From August 13 to 16, the Festival Théâtres Nomades transforms the Bois de la Cambre into a massive open-air stage. Street theater, circus acts, puppetry, storytelling, concerts, and roaming performances take place one after another in a friendly atmosphere, featuring over a hundred artists and shows for all ages. Entirely free, the festival also offers a community market, food stalls, and plenty of entertainment—enough to spend a whole day in nature without leaving Brussels.

Among the must-see exhibitions in August (and ones to keep a close eye on), the traveling exhibition *Harry Potter: The Exhibition* will soon be coming to Brussels Expo for an immersive experience in the world of the saga, featuring recreated sets, original costumes, and interactive installations. It’s sure to delight fans (and Muggles) of the saga.

On August 28 and 29, Forest Sounds returns to the Abbaye de Forest for two evenings combining concerts, DJ sets, artistic performances, and great food in a unique historic setting. Renowned for its eclectic lineup and laid-back atmosphere, this pay-what-you-want festival is the perfect opportunity to discover new artists while enjoying the last beautiful days of summer. A musical and convivial escape that appeals to both those looking to discover new acts and festival regulars alike.

Step into the heart of Tutankhamun’s tomb through an immersive and interactive experience unique to Brussels! For a cultural outing with a twist this July, head to “Tutankhamun: The Immersive Exhibition” at Brussels Expo. On the agenda: a multisensory journey featuring 360° projections, 6-meter-high walls, reenactments, virtual reality, and interactive exhibits for all ages. It’s a great way to learn while having fun!

This summer, enjoya seaside getaway without leaving Belgium at the coast’s best laid-back bars: from the Blue Buddha Beach Club in Knokke-Heist, with VIP lounge chairs and tapas under the sun, to the Baja Beach Bar in De Haan, a bohemian oasis away from the hustle and bustle. For a more family-friendly, Mediterranean vibe, Belmondo in Wenduine and La Plage in Heist offer house-made sangria, pétanque, and absolute comfort. Settle in, breathe in the sea air, and let yourself be lulled by a seaside getaway under the sun—a perfect summer plan.

From August 28 to 30, Fiesta Latina Summer 2026 transforms the Parc du Cinquantenaire into a true taste of Latin America. On the program: four stages filled with reggaeton, salsa, bachata, and baile funk; over 90 food trucks and street markets to take your taste buds on a journey; dance classes to learn a few samba or salsa steps; and even lucha libre demonstrations featuring impressive masked wrestlers. Three days to live in the Latin American time zone.

The Hottolfiades are back to transform the sky over Hotton into a true aerial spectacle with some fifty hot-air balloons from Belgium and neighboring countries. For an entire weekend, you can watch the hot air balloons take off at sunrise and sunset for free, while enjoying concerts, a craft market, family-friendly activities, and food trucks. The more adventurous can even book a first-time hot-air balloon ride to discover the Ourthe Valley from above.

Head to the Design Museum Brussels, where you can explore design in all its forms, from everyday objects to the most daring creations. Located at the foot of the Atomium, the museum invites you to take a fresh look at furniture, plastic, fashion, and the objects that shape our daily lives. In August, it’s the perfect break to enjoy a cool visit before continuing your stroll through the neighboring park or on to the famous Brussels landmark.

Through August 16, visitors can once again marvel at the splendor of the state rooms. From Alphonse Balat’s imposing white marble grand staircase to Rodin’s four bas-reliefs in the Throne Room, not to mention the incredible Hall of Mirrors, the experience is truly immersive. This prestigious tour also features four exclusive temporary exhibitions. Please note, however, that online reservations are now required and there is an admission fee (€10 for ages 13 and up).

Tucked away in the eastern part of Saint-Josse-ten-Noode, Square Armand Steurs is one of the capital’s best-kept secrets. A true masterpiece of the interwar period, this landscape and architectural gem reveals its Art Deco elegance through rolling slopes and terraced lawns. Designed by landscape architect Jules-Gustave Janlet, the greenery of Armand Steurs Square is a living work of art. The flower beds have been meticulously selected to ensure continuous blooms, with colors changing throughout the seasons.

Today, a stroll through the heart of the Cité Moderne offers a pedestrian retreat of incredible serenity. Easy to navigate and well-organized, the neighborhood invites you to explore at a leisurely pace, far fromthe hustle and bustle of the city. Extending the stroll beyond the white facades allows you to discover the many facets of Berchem-Sainte-Agathe. Just a few steps away, the Koekelberg neighborhood reveals its urban vistas, while history buffs can escape to the Château du Karreveld.

In August in Brussels, the Brussels Games bring together more than 900 participants for inclusive sports. For three days, sports competitions, wellness workshops, and recreational activities liven up the Belgian capital. From futsal and swimming to hiking and mixed-gender tennis, there’s an experience for everyone, no matter their skill level. Festive evenings, urban brunch, and an LGBTQ+-friendly atmosphere make this unmissable sporting event a real highlight.