5 fun events in Flanders this week

Taste of Ghent
A festival for foodies, this five-day event offers food and drink from specialised and local producers, plus workshops and demos on baking without sugar, dairy or eggs; pairing beer with cheese or chocolate; making jam from scratch and more. 24-28 May, Stadshal and surrounding squares, Ghent; free

Abbey Run & Walk  
An annual tradition for runners and walkers, this event starts in Tongerlo and ends in Averbode. The 16K route takes you through the woods and past historic abbeys. Walkers can register as of 8.00 and must depart by 11.00; runners can register at 11.00 for a 15.00 start. Fee includes a Tongerlo beer (of course!) 25 May, Sporta-centrum, Geneinde 2, Tongerlo; €10/€18

Ostend at Anchor
For four days, the coastal city will host 150 historic ships to the harbour for a celebration of all things nautical. View tall ships at freighters and fishing boats, listen to folk music and sea shanties, watch demonstrations of traditional crafts. 25-28 May, Ostend waterfront; free

Bokkerieje
This recreational cycling event for young and old takes you through the Maaskant, the scenic region bordering the Maas river in Limburg. Choose from one of three routes and enjoy local food and drink, music and entertainment at one of the stopping points along the way. No registration required. 28 May, start between 8.00 and 15.00, Maaseik, Opitter, Opoeteren, Stokkem; €4

Castle Path
A brand new walking path opens this weekend in Limburg in the Thiewinkel nature reserve. A guided walk departs at 13.30, followed by a reception. Afterwards, walkers can visit the neoclassical, moated castle of Lagendal, now in private hands, and its gardens. There will be a crafts market on the castle grounds. 28 May 13.00-17.00, Lagendalstraat 1, Lummen; free

Photo courtesy Gent Smaakt