5 fun events in Flanders this week
Fireworks in Laeken, witches' parade and a search for Wally: our pick of activities in Flanders and Brussels
Walk it out
Fireworks in Laeken
On selected Fridays until the end of August, there will be a fireworks display in Laeken. This week, the theme is urban ecology, with a labyrinth, farmyard animals, insect tastings and workshops. At 21.00 there’s a country music concert and dance classes; the fireworks start at 23.00. 28 July 18.00-midnight, Belgiëplein 1, Brussels; free
Witches’ Parade
This is the 45th annual parade of witches in Beselare (West Flanders), a village with a long tradition of ghost stories and scary tales. Local witches and stories are portrayed in the parade, as well as well-known fairy tales like Hansel & Gretel and Snow White. A unique mix of folklore, fantasy, humour and horror. 30 July, Beselare (Zonnebeke); €6
Donkey tour
Take a leisurely walk through the Merode nature reserve in Antwerp with seven donkeys as trail companions. Children under 40kg can take turns riding the animals; it’s best to bring a buggy or stroller along for small children. Take a picnic as there will be a lunch break along the way. 30 July 11.00-15.00, De Merode, Cardijnlaan 1, Herentals; €6/€3 for under-13s
Asylum centre open house
One of 19 centres for asylum-seekers in Belgium, the facility in Poelkapelle has room for 327 people. During the open house, you can take a guided tour of the centre and enjoy world music, street theatre, a flea market and food and drink. 30 July 10.00-18.00, Stadensteenweg 68, Langemark-Poelkapelle; free
Where’s Wally?
Explore Aarschot on foot while searching for Wally (in the form of stickers) along the way; he’s easy to spot with his red-and-white striped shirt. Find the three special stickers and win a cool prize. Pick up a map at the tourist office and choose from three routes. Tuesday-Sunday until the end of August, Elizabethlaan 103, Aarschot; free
Photo courtesy Visit Brussels
