The week in activities: 12 August

Every other summer, alternating with years that the Flower Carpet appears on the Grote Markt, the Town Hall of Brussels is transformed into a showcase of the best and latest in floral design and arrangements. This year the theme is Italian Baroque. 13-16 August, 10.00-22.00; Stadhuis, Grote Markt, Brussels; €5
www.flowertime.brussels

A street festival for all ages in one of Ghent’s oldest neighbourhoods, next to Gravensteen Castle. Live music, gallery visits, flea market, parades, dancing, food and drink. Guided tour of the Patershol district at 9.45 on Saturday (€5). 14-16 August; Kaatsspelplein, Ghent; free
www.patershol.org

Annual family bike event sponsored by Ter Dolen Brewery. Choose from bike routes of 20, 55 or 90 km, or mountain bike routes of 25 or 45 km. Three different starting points in Beringen, Zonhoven or Houthalen-Helchteren. 16 August, 08.00-15.00; Sportstadion Helsen, Sportstraat 11/C, Houthalen-Helchteren (Limburg); €3
www.terdolenfietshappening.be

Sample dozens of local Belgian beers, from both well-known and obscure breweries, plus a handful from international brewers at this outdoor festival. Live music, food stands and children’s activities. 14-15 August; T. Toyeplein, Zwevegem (West Flanders); free (€2,50 per beer)
www.flanderseventsvzw.be

Travel back in time to the Middle Ages during this family festival at a historic castle, with knights’ sword-fighting tournament, children’s activities, storytelling, falconry show, minstrels, etc. 15-16 August, 10.00-18.00; Kasteel van Horst, Horststraat 28, Holsbeek (Flemish Brabant); €7
www.pynnockriddershorst.info

Photo courtesy Zomercarnaval Kortrijk