5 fun events in Flanders this week

Retro Tour of Flanders
Although same-day registration is no longer possible, you can still come out and watch this annual gathering of vintage bikes and their riders. There’s a fun ride and swap meet on Saturday, with the race itself on Sunday. Retro Soirée with music, food and dancing on Saturday night. 11-12 June, Maagdendale Abbey, 11 Maagdendale, Oudenaarde; free for spectators

Castle Festival 1830
Historic Ursel Castle will be transported back in time to the period of the Belgian Revolution. The castle’s owner is sympathetic to Dutch ruler William of Orange and invites him and his troops to visit. Costumed re-enactors, artillery demonstrations, music and dance, traditional crafts, children’s activities and more. 12 June 13.00-18.00, Wolfgang d’Urselstraat 9, Bornem; €9

Petrol Factory
A retro-themed celebration of horsepower, with vintage motorcycles and cars, workshops on maintenance, tattoos, street food and music. In the evening, there’s a punk rock party with live music. 11 June 10.00-18.00; De Kruitfabriek, Steenkaai 44D, Vilvoorde; free (€10 for party)

Hex Garden Days
Beautiful Hex Castle, with its lush formal gardens, is the setting for this annual summer festival. Flowering and edible plants for sale, garden supplies, demonstrations and workshops, garden tours, food and drink. This year’s themes are International Year of Pulses, Roses in the Kitchen, and Plants from the East. 10-12 June 10.00-18.00, Kasteel Hex, Hexlaan, Heers (Limburg); €10

Iconoclasm guided walk
450 years ago, the Protestant Reformation swept across Europe, and Belgium was caught up in the conflict between the Catholic Church and those who would destroy it. Learn about the places in Ypres affected by the Iconoclasm during this two-hour guided walk. Registration required via [email protected]. 12 June 14.30-16.30, Ypres Tourism, Grote Markt 34; €3,50

Photo courtesy Retro Ronde