Belgium and beer are inseparable. There are almost 200 breweries in the country that produces around 1,500 types of beer. Sweet and bitter, strong and low-alcohol, fruit and sour—local brewers know how to satisfy any beer-lover. Trappist beers brewed in abbeys, amber, kriek beers (fruit beers), brown and red beers, saison, strong blond and wheat beers are among most famous types.
In 2016, the beer culture of Belgium was recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. To understand what beer means to the Belgians, you may visit a local beer festival and try different kinds of drink. The best season for beer-lovers is autumn as there are plenty of events to choose from.
Belgian Beer Weekend in Brussels (September 6–8, 2024)
The main festival to attend is the Belgian Beer Weekend, which takes place in Brussels in early September. The festival features over 70 breweries, gives numerous awards, and entertains the public with a parade of historic beer carts. Held in the beautiful Grand Marche setting, the event is organized by the National Federation of Belgian Brewers. The main highlight of the festival is the Knighting Ceremony, where Belgian beer ambassadors are knighted in recognition of their contribution to promoting Belgian beer and culture. The Festival's beer stands, with a wide array of samples from Belgian breweries, are open from 6 to 10 pm.
Poperinge Beer Festival (October 26–27, 2024)
The other festival to attend in late October is the Beer and Hop Festival in Poperinge. A colorful tent village offering beer tastings, a Hop Queen election, an international Hop pageant, and live music concerts are on the program for the festival. In 2024, will take place once again in The Maeke Blyde event hall. Over 25 brewers will present and pour over 125 of their finest beers. The festival runs from 2:30 to 11 pm. The starter pack, which includes one glass and 5 tokens is € 15.
Modeste Beer Festival in Antwerp (early October 2024)
Aside from the large-scale events that showcase well-known and recognizable breweries, there are festivals that place a focus on small producers. To gain insight into local beers, you may visit Modeste Bierfestival in Antwerp. It's held in late September or early October.
Brassigaume in Marbehan (October 19–20, 2024)
The same can be said for Brassigaume—the small breweries international festival in the village of Marbehan, Ardennes. In late October, small Belgian and foreign brewers come to the festival to challenge beer lovers and surprise them with new tastes. In 2024, the festival will take place at Complexe du Bois-des-Isles de Marbehan (Rue des Prés, 16). Over 27 Belgian and foreign brewers will present their best beers. Doors open from 1 to 8 pm. A glass is €5. A beer sample is €2.20.
