Oyez, ladies and gentlemen! From May 18 to July 4, 2025, Brussels comes back to Renaissance times with the Brussels Renaissance Festival. It’s a grandiose event that summons the past to the streets of Brussels for just a few weeks. The famous Ommegang – the long-awaited folk show – takes place on Wednesday, July 2 and Friday, July 4, 2025. Bruxelles Secrète tells you more about this event, a favorite of the curious and history buffs.
The Brussels Renaissance Festival returns to Brussels in May 2025
To immerse yourself in the era of Charles V and the 16th century in Brussels, head for the Brussels Renaissance Festival, which sets up its torches, costumes and flags in the capital from May 18 to July 4, 2025. This annual event, which highlights European Renaissance heritage and history, focuses on the role of Brussels during this period. King Charles V, who established his principal residence in our city, is also highlighted.
For the Brussels Renaissance Festival, the city puts on a whole series of events and shows. To learn more about Renaissance customs and habits, visit the King’s House and Place Royale. Other guided tours are organized at Église Notre-Dame du Sablon, Brussels City Hall, Collegiale St-Pierre et Guidon, Église St Jacq, KBR Museum, Église de la Chapelle and Les Marolles.
Free guided tours of Brussels churches are organized with Kerk en Toerisme. Finally, family activities are organized at the Palais du Coudenberg on Family Day. As a family, you can take part in themed workshops and practise your crossbow shooting or swordplay!
The Ommegang closes the festival again this year: how do you get there?
The Ommegang folk procession – with its 1,400 costumed participants – will take place on Wednesday July 2 and Friday July 4, 2025 at 9pm (doors open at 7:30pm). Tickets can be booked on ommegang.be and cost from 45€ to 85€. Will we see you there?