5 fun events in Flanders this week
Cherry picking, cheese making and a circus festival: Our pick of activities in Flanders and Brussels
Crafty skills
Cheesemaking for kids
On Wednesdays in July and August, children can learn to make cheese from fresh milk in an interactive workshop. During the process, they learn about the history and craft of cheesemaking, and get to taste the product of their efforts. Registration required via [email protected]. Until 31 August 14.30-16.00, De Oude Kaasmakerij, s’Graventafelstraat 48A, Passendale; €7
Circus Festival
To celebrate Flemish Community Day, Ghent is putting on a party. Enjoy the acrobats, magicians, fortune tellers, jugglers and more… or see if you (or your kids) have what it takes to join the circus, with free workshops for all ages. There’s even a try-out trapeze. 9 July 14.00-19.00, Stadshal, Poeljemarkt, Ghent; free
Castle tour for families
A guide takes you and your kids on a fun adventure through historic Gaasbeek Castle, in which you learn about its former inhabitants and their luxe lifestyle. Tours during the summer are adapted to the ages of the participants. Reservations required via [email protected]. Wednesdays until 31 August 14.30-16.00, Kasteel van Gaasbeek, Kasteelstraat 40, Gaasbeek; €10
The Cherry
An annual celebration of… you guessed it. More than 250 varieties of cherries from Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany will be on offer, along with products made from cherries: beer, wine, baked goods, preserves, etc. Best of all, the castle’s ancient cherry orchard will be open to the public on this one day only. 10 July 10.00-17.00, Alden Biesen, Kasteelstraat 6, Bilzen; free
Guided tour of Leuven
A chance to get acquainted with the beautiful and historic capital of Flemish Brabant. Visit the highlights during a guided tour (in English), including its Gothic city hall, two begijnhofs (Unesco World Heritage sites), university and more. No reservation necessary. 9 July 11.00-12.30, departs from City Hall, Grote Markt 5, Leuven; €5
Photo courtesy Horta