Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.
Belgium, a small European country known for its medieval towns and Renaissance architecture, is also a prime destination for music enthusiasts. With a rich history of hosting world-class festivals, Belgium offers music experiences that cater to a diverse range of tastes.
In this article, we are going to explore some of the best music festivals this beautiful country offers, and provide you with all the essential information you need to plan your next music experience in Belgium.
One of the most iconic music festivals in Belgium is Tomorrowland, a sensational event that takes place over two weekends in July. Located in the enchanting town of Boom, Tomorrowland is a globally renowned electronic music festival that brings the best of EDM, techno, house, and hardstyle genres together.
With a staggering attendance of over 400,000 people, this festival guarantees an unforgettable experience, filled with magical moments and powerful connections. Get ready to unite with thousands of other music lovers from all corners of the world as you “Live Today, Love Tomorrow, Unite Forever.”
Another must-attend Belgian music festival is Rock Werchter, held annually during the last weekend of June or the first weekend of July. Since its inception in 1977, Rock Werchter has grown into a four-day camping festival, featuring some of the biggest names in music across three stages.
With previous lineups showcasing acts like Coldplay, Radiohead, and Guns N’ Roses, this festival is a haven for rock music fans. Boasting a typical attendance of around 150,000 people, Rock Werchter provides an energetic atmosphere and an unforgettable concert experience that you simply cannot miss.
Page Contents
Dance Music Festivals In Belgium
Tomorrowland
Tomorrowland, held in Boom, Belgium, is without a doubt one of the most iconic dance music festivals in the world. Taking place over two weekends, July 21-23 and July 28-30 in 2023, the festival attracts attendees from all around the globe. Known for its incredible stage designs, top-notch production, and impressive lineups, Tomorrowland is a must-attend festival for all electronic dance music (EDM) enthusiasts.
What sets Tomorrowland apart is its magical and alluring atmosphere, where festival-goers can truly immerse themselves in the world of music, art, and creativity. The festival’s motto, “Live Today, Love Tomorrow, Unite Forever,” is an invitation for everyone to experience this once-in-a-lifetime event.
With a capacity that reaches over 400,000 attendees for both weekends, the festival not only brings big-name acts, but also showcases different subgenres of dance music such as techno, house, electronic, and hardstyle. Some of its previous headliners have been industry giants like Armin van Buuren, David Guetta, and Martin Garrix.
If you’re an EDM lover, you shouldn’t miss this unforgettable festival, as it offers one of the most unique and engaging experiences of the global dance music scene.
Sunrise Festival
Sunrise Festival is another Belgian dance music festival that should be on your radar. This spectacular event takes place in late June each year at the picturesque De Lilse Bergen in Gierle, Belgium. The festival lasts for two days, offering an incredible and diverse lineup of world-renowned artists across multiple stages.
At Sunrise Festival, you’ll find a broad range of dance music styles being celebrated, from house and techno to trance and hardstyle. Past lineups have featured talented acts such as Don Diablo, Brennan Heart, and Charlotte de Witte, catering to various music tastes.
One of the major attractions of Sunrise Festival is its floating stage, allowing festival-goers to dance on the water while taking in the breathtaking lakeside views. The unique Water Stage is an experience in itself, setting this festival apart from others.
In addition to the fantastic music and impressive stage designs, Sunrise Festival offers camping facilities for those who wish to fully embrace the festival spirit. Attendees can also take part in various activities and workshops to make their experience even more memorable.
If you’re planning to attend a music festival in Belgium, both Tomorrowland and Sunrise Festival should be at the top of your list. With their diverse lineups, innovative stages, and enchanting atmosphere, these events guarantee unforgettable experiences that will leave you wishing for more.
Electronic Music Festivals In Belgium
Belgium is home to numerous fantastic electronic music festivals. In this section, we’ll focus on two of the most remarkable events: Paradise City and Extrema Outdoor Belgium.
Paradise City
Paradise City is an exhilarating electronic music festival that takes place annually in June at the Ribaucourt Castle in Perk, Flanders. This three-day festival usually attracts thousands of music enthusiasts, looking for an eco-friendly experience filled with techno, house, and electronic tunes.
When: June
Where: Ribaucourt Castle, Perk, Flanders
With a sustainability-focused mindset, Paradise City amazes its festival-goers not only with its vibrant lineup but also with its commitment to being a zero-waste event. In previous years, the festival has featured a variety of international artists, including Adriatique, Henrik Schwarz, and ARTBAT.
What makes Paradise City so exceptional is its picturesque castle setting, combined with cutting-edge stage designs and a fantastic atmosphere. The festival prides itself on its diverse lineup, catering to fans of various electronic subgenres, from techno to house and even dubstep.
If you’re an electronic music lover searching for an environmentally-conscious and unforgettable festival experience, Paradise City is a must-attend event.
Extrema Outdoor Belgium
Extrema Outdoor Belgium, also known as XOBE, is a thrilling annual electronic music festival taking place in Houthalen-Helchteren, Flanders, during May. The three-day event features a broad range of electronic music styles, including techno, house, and dubstep, attracting thousands of fans from around the globe.
When: May
Where: Houthalen-Helchteren, Flanders
In previous editions, XOBE has welcomed a variety of world-renowned acts like Amelie Lens, Charlotte de Witte, and Pan-Pot. Additionally, the festival hosts mesmerizing stage designs, offering an immersive experience for electronic music aficionados.
One of the key aspects that make Extrema Outdoor Belgium stand out is its dedication to providing an inclusive environment for all attendees. The festival promotes a message of unity and togetherness, ensuring everyone feels welcome regardless of their background.
If you’re looking to attend a festival with a diverse lineup and a strong focus on community spirit, Extrema Outdoor Belgium should be on your radar. With an energetic vibe and high-quality production, XOBE promises a unique and memorable experience for all electronic music enthusiasts.
Rock Music Festivals In Belgium
Belgium has a vibrant rock music scene, and some top-notch festivals cater to fans of this genre. In this section, we’ll dive into two of the country’s most iconic rock events: Rock Werchter and Graspop Metal Meeting. Each festival has its unique features, making them both must-visit destinations for any rock music enthusiast.
Rock Werchter
Rock Werchter, held annually in the town of Werchter, has been a staple in Belgium’s music festival scene since 1977. The four-day event typically takes place on the last weekend of June and attracts over 150,000 attendees from around the globe.
Lineup: The festival boasts an impressive lineup each year, featuring iconic acts like Foo Fighters, Pearl Jam, and Radiohead, ensuring an unforgettable experience for rock fans. The event’s three stages host a mix of international superstars and up-and-coming talent, offering a diverse and well-rounded musical experience.
Venue: The festival’s atmosphere is made even more impressive by its spacious venue, which includes comfortable camping facilities for those who wish to stay on-site and fully immerse themselves in the event. Plus, the easily accessible town of Werchter ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip for attendees.
Why Attend: Rock Werchter’s consistent dedication to showcasing the best of rock music, its beautiful location, and its longevity make it a must-visit for anyone passionate about the genre. If you’re looking to experience an incredible lineup mixed with rich Belgian culture, Rock Werchter should definitely be on your festival bucket list.
Graspop Metal Meeting
Graspop Metal Meeting in Dessel is a paradise for fans of heavier rock and metal music. This long-standing event has been providing a platform for the best acts in the genre since 1996. It usually occurs in mid-June and spans four action-packed days, with a crowd of around 150,000 metalheads united in their love for music.
Lineup: Graspop’s lineup focuses on heavy metal, hard rock, and related styles, featuring acts like Iron Maiden, Slayer, and Judas Priest. With multiple stages and a massive selection of bands, the festival is a remarkable experience for both veteran metal aficionados and newer fans.
Venue: The festival ground is located in a green area near the charming town of Dessel and offers expansive camping facilities. The well-organized site ensures a comfortable experience for festival-goers who opt to camp, while the nearby town caters to those seeking other accommodations.
Why Attend: Graspop Metal Meeting is a festival that stands out for its unwavering dedication to the metal genre, offering fans a uniquely concentrated experience. If you’re a metal enthusiast, there’s no better place to be in June than at Graspop, surrounded by like-minded fans and the power of live music.
Jazz Music Festivals In Belgium
Brussels Jazz Festival
The Brussels Jazz Festival is a highly anticipated event in the Belgian jazz scene, taking place in the vibrant city of Brussels. This renowned festival showcases an eclectic mix of local and international jazz talent, making it a must-visit for music lovers.
Held annually, the festival typically occurs during the summer months, offering warm and pleasant weather for attendees to enjoy the multiple stages set up throughout the event. With an impressive lineup of musicians and bands, the Brussels Jazz Festival has something for every jazz enthusiast.
The festival usually runs for a couple of days, attracting thousands of visitors. This not only allows attendees to immerse themselves in various jazz performances, but it also offers ample opportunity to explore the rich culture, architecture, and culinary offerings of the city.
In previous years, the Brussels Jazz Festival has featured numerous accomplished artists, such as Lotto Brussels Jazz, that have enthralled audiences with their unique and engaging performances. Each year, the lineup continues to broaden its reach, presenting seasoned musicians alongside inspiring newcomers.
What sets the Brussels Jazz Festival apart from others is its commitment to showcasing a diverse range of jazz styles. Festival-goers can expect to experience everything from traditional to contemporary, and even experimental jazz, catering to all tastes.
The bustling city of Brussels serves as a beautiful backdrop for this exciting festival, allowing for picturesque outdoor stages and compelling indoor venues like historic clubs and theaters. The buzzing atmosphere not only adds to the overall experience of the event but provides a unique networking platform for the international jazz community.
If you’re a fan of jazz music, the Brussels Jazz Festival is an event you won’t want to miss. From its thrilling performances to its scenic location, the festival offers a memorable experience for all attendees. So, mark your calendars, gather your friends, and start planning your trip to Brussels for the ultimate jazz adventure.
Pop Music Festivals In Belgium
Pukkelpop
Pukkelpop is a highly acclaimed pop music festival in Belgium, taking place every year in the city of Hasselt. The festival is usually held in August and attracts around 200,000 visitors, making it one of the biggest alternative open-air music events in the country. Spanning over three to four days, Pukkelpop offers a vibrant and diverse mix of music genres, including pop, rock, electronic, and more.
In previous years, Pukkelpop has boasted an impressive lineup of both local and international acts. Some noteworthy performers include Kendrick Lamar, Rae Sremmurd, and Travis Scott. The festival features multiple stages, providing an incredible platform for both established and emerging artists. With its wide range of genres, Pukkelpop caters to a vast audience, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
What makes Pukkelpop truly unique is its commitment to supporting new talent and offering an exceptional experience for festival-goers. In addition to music, the event showcases art installations, gourmet food stands, and numerous activities for attendees to participate in.
Reasons To Attend Pukkelpop:
- Diverse lineup of music genres: From pop to electronic, there’s something for everyone.
- Exciting atmosphere and unique location: The festival takes place in Hasselt, offering a beautiful and vibrant setting for an unforgettable experience.
- Supports new and emerging talent: Pukkelpop is dedicated to giving a platform to both established acts and up-and-coming artists.
- More than just music: Alongside the incredible lineup, Pukkelpop offers art installations, gourmet food, and interactive activities.
If you’re a pop music enthusiast who wants to experience a well-rounded and dynamic festival that supports new talent and offers an exciting atmosphere, make sure Pukkelpop is on your must-attend list. With its impressive lineup and variety of additional attractions, this extraordinary event is definitely worth planning a trip for.
Alternative Music Festivals In Belgium
Dour Festival
The Dour Festival is an iconic alternative music event held annually in the village of Dour, Belgium. The festival typically takes place over five days in July and attracts an impressive crowd of approximately 200,000 attendees. The festival is known for its immense line-up, featuring an array of diverse genres, including rock, pop, electronic, hip-hop, and reggae.
Over the years, Dour Festival has played host to a variety of internationally renowned acts such as Massive Attack, Bonobo, Tyler, The Creator, and Pixies. Each year, the festival showcases a remarkable blend of emerging talents and established artists, ensuring a unique and unforgettable experience for its visitors.
What sets the Dour Festival apart is its passionate commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. The festival organizers have implemented a range of eco-friendly policies, such as recycling stations, reusable cups, and promoting the use of public transportation for attendees.
If you’re longing for an exhilarating alternative music experience with a focus on sustainability and a diverse line-up, add the Dour Festival to your must-attend list.
Couleur Café Festival
Couleur Café Festival is a vibrant and inclusive music festival held annually in the heart of Brussels. The event usually takes place over the last weekend of June and features an eclectic mix of musical genres including world music, reggae, hip-hop, and funk. With an average attendance of over 75,000 music enthusiasts, the festival has cemented its position as a must-visit Belgian event.
Previous editions have seen performances by big names like Ben Harper, Wu-Tang Clan, Angélique Kidjo, and Groundation. Couleur Café Festival is also committed to showcasing local and emerging talents, offering a captivating balance of both familiar sounds and new discoveries.
In addition to the exceptional live music, the festival also offers an array of cultural experiences. Guests can explore various food stalls, attend dance workshops, and even participate in the iconic Bruges Beer Festival – held simultaneously with Couleur Café Festival, which features hundreds of different Belgian beers.
The Couleur Café Festival is an engaging and immersive experience filled with incredible music and activities. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover diverse and captivating artists while indulging in the rich cultural tapestry on offer in the heart of Belgium’s vibrant capital.
Hip-Hop Music Festivals In Belgium
Les Ardentes
Les Ardentes is a renowned music festival in Belgium, primarily focusing on hip-hop and trap music. It takes place in the vibrant city of Liège, attracting thousands of music enthusiasts each year.
Usually held in July, Les Ardentes spans several days, presenting an unforgettable experience to attendees seeking to immerse themselves in hip-hop culture. The festival has gained popularity due to its incredible line-up of local and international artists, with more than 15,000 people attending the event in previous years.
The festival’s unique blend of hip-hop and trap genres has drawn the attention of notable artists from around the world. In the past, Les Ardentes has welcomed high-profile acts, proving its commitment to providing an unparalleled music experience for its audience.
One aspect that sets Les Ardentes apart from other music festivals is the atmosphere and location. Taking place in Liège – an energetic city with a rich cultural heritage and exquisite architecture – the event offers an unmatched ambiance where attendees can fully embrace the fusion of music and urban setting.
With its exceptional line-up and fantastic location, attending Les Ardentes should be on every hip-hop lover’s list. Not only will they get to witness world-class acts performing live, but they will also have the chance to explore the beautiful city of Liège and indulge in its rich history and charm.
So, if you’re looking to take part in a spectacular hip-hop festival, Les Ardentes in Belgium is a must-visit event. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Liège and let yourself be captivated by the energetic performances that await you.
Miscellaneous Music Festivals In Belgium
Cactus Festival
Cactus Festival is an annual event held in Bruges, Belgium. Taking place in the lovely Minnewaterpark, the festival spans over three days in July. This diverse music festival showcases a combination of genres, including Punk, Folk Music, Reggae, and World Music.
The festival caters to fans with eclectic tastes, offering a unique and memorable experience. Attracting around 25,000 visitors each year, Cactus Festival ensures a comfortable and intimate vibe. The event emphasizes the importance of performance and audience engagement, creating a lively atmosphere that resonates with attendees. Some previous years’ acts include Patti Smith, Iggy Pop, and Charles Bradley. The festival is known for its beautiful setting, fantastic line-up, and a diverse, international array of talent.
Cactus Festival is a must-attend event for music lovers looking for a taste of the local and international music scene in Western Europe. The festival’s picturesque backdrop makes it an ideal excursion for tourists and locals alike, so don’t miss the chance to add it to your summer itinerary!
Paradise City Festival
Paradise City Festival takes place at Ribaucourt Castle in the stunning area of Flemish Brabant. The event is held in June, boasting an exciting three-day experience filled with music, art, food, and sustainability.
Typically, the festival has around 12,000 visitors and showcases a blend of electronic, house, and techno performances. Paradise City Festival heavily emphasizes its commitment to sustainability and green initiatives; making it an eco-friendly event worth attending.
In addition to the impressive line-up, Paradise City Festival offers captivating performances, impressive fireworks, and confetti that add to the mesmerizing festival atmosphere. Notable acts from previous years include Amelie Lens, DJ Koze, and Call Super. The festival’s enchanting setting combined with a forward-thinking approach to entertainment make it a must-attend event for music and eco-conscious fans.
Brussels Summer Festival
Brussels Summer Festival occurs across ten days in August, taking over various venues in the heart of Brussels. With around 50,000 visitors per year, the festival showcases a wide range of music genres and boasts an impressive and varied line-up.
Past participants include Pet Shop Boys, The Cardigans, and Milow. The Brussels Summer Festival has made a name for itself by offering something for everyone, including World Music, Punk, and Folk Music performances.
The festival’s vibrant atmosphere spills over to the city streets, blending music, food, and local culture into a unique, unforgettable experience. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy a summer vacation in the beautiful city of Brussels while attending this extraordinary music event!
Ronquières Festival
Held during the first weekend of August at the Plan Incliné de Ronquières in Wallonia, the Ronquières Festival is a relatively new but fast-growing event. The festival offers an astonishing variety of music, with a focus on pop, rock, and alternative genres.
Over 20,000 attendees flock to the festival, which has already built a strong reputation for its incredible line-ups. Previous acts include Orelsan, The Vaccines, and Jain. The unique setting and refreshing atmosphere mark this festival as a hidden gem among Belgian events.
With an emphasis on featuring emerging talent alongside established acts, the Ronquières Festival is a must-see event for music enthusiasts looking for fresh, new experiences.
Ostend Beach Festival
Ostend Beach Festival, held in July at Klein Strand Ostend, is a premier electronic dance music event, attracting more than 15,000 visitors per year. The festival features multiple stages with renowned local and international DJs, as well as live electronic acts.
Ostend Beach Festival sets itself apart with an exciting beach setting and a mix of techno, house, and deep electronica. With past performers like Fatboy Slim, Netsky, and Nina Kraviz, the festival promises a thrilling dance music experience. Attendees can also enjoy fun beach activities, sunbathing, and the enchanting seaside surroundings.
This vibrant beach music event is a summer sensation you don’t want to miss – pack your sunglasses, sunscreen, and be prepared to dance in the sand all day long!
Other Festivals In Belgium
Boombal Festival
Boombal Festival in Ghent, Belgium, is an annual cultural event featuring various traditional dances, such as folk waltz, mazurka, and jig. Happening in August, the four-day festival offers visitors the chance to learn these dances through workshops and soak in the festive atmosphere. In the evenings, a lineup of impressive bands takes to the stage, making Boombal Festival a unique experience for anyone seeking to experience Belgium’s diverse music scene.
To summarize, Belgium has a thriving music festival scene worth exploring. From electronic dance music at Tomorrowland to indie rock at Pukkelpop, and urban sounds at Les Ardentes, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful European country. Don’t miss the chance to attend these vibrant events and create unforgettable memories while enjoying some of the best music the continent has to offer.
