5 fun events in Flanders this week
Sing-along parties, giant water slide and magic in the park: our pick of activities in Flanders and Brussels
Slide and sing
The Big Slide
What could be more fun on a hot summer day than whooshing down a giant water slide? This pop-up attraction on the beach at Ostend is 150 metres long and only lasts one weekend. Book your ticket in advance for an hour of unlimited sliding, as it will sell out. Bring your inflatable ring or pool float or rent one on site. 21-23 July 10.00-22.00, Ostend in front of Thermae Palace Hotel; €10
Flanders Sings
With the goal of bringing people together through singing, this festival travels around Flanders throughout the year with giant sing-along parties in different cities. Participants sing popular, well-known songs in Dutch, English and French. On the national holiday, there are simultaneous editions in Brussels and Bruges. 21 July 20.00, Vossenplein, Brussels and Grote Markt, Bruges; free
Circus and Magic in the Park
Josaphat Park in Schaerbeek will be overrun with enchanting entertainment for young and old, including circus acts, street theatre, magicians, jugglers, balloon artists, stilt-walkers and more. 22-23 July 14.00-17.00, Josaphatpark, Schaerbeek, Brussels; free
Ghent Bicycle Loop
Discover the greenbelt surroundings of Ghent by bike. Follow the entire 80-kilometre route through Desteldonk, Wondelgem, Drongen and Zwijnaarde or pick a shorter section at each starting point. There are also easy routes for kids and families. Register in advance via the website or on the day itself. 23 July, across East Flanders; €4
Beach Run
This evening fun run in Koksijde is an annual tradition for all ages, with two youth runs (1K and 2K), plus a 5K and a 10K for the grown-ups. A portion of the registration fee goes to Think Pink! to support breast cancer research. 26 July 17.00-22.00, Zeedijk, Sint-Idesbald (Koksijde); €3