5 fun events in Flanders this week
A global meet up of photographers, a culinary trip to the picturesque suburbs of Bruges and a flower festival in Hasselt: our pick of activities in Flanders and Brussels
All the ins and outs
Damme Culinair
Treat yourself to a day in this picturesque village just outside of Bruges and sample the best of the region’s products and food specialties. Local chefs will prepare traditional and innovative dishes, while craft brewers, bakers, butchers and cheesemakers serve up their wares. 2 October, 10.00-18.00, Markt, Damme (West Flanders); free
Worldwide Photo Walk
Each year, amateur and professional photographers from around the world gather to explore cities, take pictures, share tips and raise money for charity. Walks are locally organised, with events in Bruges, Kortrijk, Antwerp and Brussels. Sign up on the website. 1 October; free
Chrysanthemum Festival
This year’s edition of Hasselt’s celebration of the chrysanthemum puts top Flemish floral designer Tomas De Bruyne in charge of the installations in the Japanese Garden. He’s also invited a celebrated Japanese colleague to decorate the tea house, which will be wholly open to the public for the first time. 1-9 October 10.00-18.00, Japanese Garden, Gouverneur Verwhilghensingel 23, Hasselt; €5
Out in Brussels
A full programme of activities on the historic Tour & Taxis site marks the first edition of this outdoor festival. Start the day with brunch and a panel discussion on the capital’s cultural scene, followed by a choice of guided tours by boat, by bike or on foot. Places are limited, so reservations required. 2 October, Muntpaleis, Havenlaan 88, Brussels; €10-€15
Fruit Day at the Abbey
The historic orchard of the Benedictine Abbey of Vlierbeek has been carefully restored by the city of Leuven, students and community volunteers. Take a guided tour of the orchard, learn about heritage fruit trees and taste honey, jams and fresh fruit from the trees. 2 October 10.00-17.00, Vlierbeek Abbey, Kessel-Lo; free
About the author
