What’s on: Will it be zombies in Brussels or tulips in Flanders?
Brussels’ annual horror and sci-fi film festival tops our agenda picks of the week, while a new musical at Antwerp Zoo and Floralia in Groot-Bijgaarden usher in the spring with rather less gore
BIFFF
Outside of the movies – will it be the giant killer boar in Australia or the Russian undercover cop who wakes up in the body of an infant? – there is a market of collectables and other oddities, a Gaming Madness Zone, a Vampire Ball and the highlight of the BIFFF calendar – the Zombie Olympics. Take part in spinal column-throwing or bridal-gut pitching, or just show up to watch the parade. Gawkers are more than welcome.
Until 15 April, Bozar and other venues, Brussels
Zoo of Life
Antwerp Zoo has spent the better part of a year preparing this larger-than-life musical to celebrate its 175th anniversary. With top Flemish musical stars like Jelle Cleymans and Tinne Oltmans joining hundreds of volunteers, the energetic story follows a romance between a gorilla-keeper and a schoolteacher and relays the stories of the other staff and animals who populate the zoo. The message: We’re all just animals, following our hearts and doing the best we can. (in Dutch)
Until 13 April, Koningin Elisabethzaal (in the zoo), Antwerp
Floralia Brussels
One million bulbs are in bloom on the beautiful castle grounds in Groot-Bijgaarden, just outside of Brussels. This annual blast of colour includes nearly all spring bulb varieties. There are more than 400 types of tulips and huge numbers of narcissuses and daffodils. You’ll find more exotic species indoors, as well as refreshments and a garden market. There’s not a better way to spend a warm spring day (which are apparently on the way).
6 April to 6 May, Groot-Bijgaarden Castle, Isidoor Van Beverenstraat 5
