Every two years, Brussels’ Grand-Place gets a makeover. For four days only, its cobblestones disappear beneath a spectacular floral mosaic that attracts visitors from all over the world. And the 2026 edition promises to be one of the most memorable yet.
A giant mural in the colors of Japan
From August 13 to 16, 2026, the Flower Carpet will once again cover the 1,680 m² of the Grand-Place. This year, the theme celebrates 160 years of diplomatic relations between Belgium and Japan with a design inspired by Hokusai’s legendary “The Great Wave off Kanagawa.” Designed by Japanese artist Hiro Sugiyama, this monumental mural will come to life thanks to more than 500,000 dahlias, assembled in just a few hours by a team of volunteers.
A spectacle that continues into the night
When the sun sets, the atmosphere changes once again. Every evening, a sound-and-light show will illuminate the carpet, offering a whole new way to admire this ephemeral work of art. To fully appreciate its designs, the balcony of City Hall remains one of the best vantage points.
Something new to discover in 2026
This year’s event also has a surprise in store: a second flower carpet will make its debut on the Place de la Bourse. Inspired by Belgium’s brewing heritage, it will extend the floral trail to one of the most iconic locations in the city center.
Created in 1971, the Flower Carpet has become one of the must-see events of the Brussels summer. Ephemeral, spectacular, and always fresh, it can only be seen every two years…an excellent reason not to miss the 2026 edition.
📆 Dates: August 13–16, 2026
📆 Sound and light show: 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. (every 30 minutes).
