Belgium, a country known for its rich history and culture, is equally celebrated for its beer. With a brewing tradition that stretches back centuries, Belgian beer has become an integral part of the nation’s identity. For beer enthusiasts, visiting Belgium is akin to a pilgrimage. From monks brewing in Trappist monasteries to modern craft brewers pushing the boundaries, Belgian beer culture offers an unparalleled experience. What better way to dive deep into this world than by attending one of the main Belgian beer festivals? These events not only showcase the country’s brewing heritage but also offer an immersive cultural experience.
In this article, we’ll take a tour of some of Belgium’s most famous beer festivals, each providing a unique perspective on the craft. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or a casual drinker curious about Belgian brews, these festivals are a must-visit.
1. Zythos Beer Festival (ZBF) – Leuven
When: End of April
Where: Brabanthal, Leuven
The Zythos Beer Festival (ZBF) is arguably the largest and most renowned beer event in Belgium, and it’s often considered the perfect introduction to Belgian beer festivals. Held annually in the vibrant city of Leuven, home to the famous Stella Artois brewery, ZBF gathers breweries from across the country and beyond, offering over 500 beers for tasting. This two-day festival provides an excellent opportunity to sample an array of styles, from well-known Trappist ales to experimental brews from Belgium’s emerging craft breweries.
ZBF operates on a token system, where attendees purchase tokens to sample beer. This makes it easy to navigate the festival at your own pace and allows you to try as much (or as little) as you like without feeling overwhelmed. The festival’s location, in the heart of Leuven, also means you can explore the city’s beautiful architecture, enjoy local food, and visit the Stella Artois brewery after the event.
For those new to Belgian beer, ZBF offers a great platform to learn about different beer styles like lambics, saisons, and Belgian strong ales. The event also attracts brewers who love to share the stories behind their creations, making it a learning experience as well.
2. Brussels Beer Weekend – Brussels
When: First weekend of September
Where: Grand Place, Brussels
There are few beer festivals in the world set in a location as stunning as the Brussels Beer Weekend. Held annually in the Grand Place, one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, this festival celebrates Belgian beer in all its glory. Surrounded by ornate guildhalls, the Brussels Beer Weekend showcases a wide selection of beers from some of Belgium’s most esteemed breweries, as well as smaller craft brewers.
With free entry and a token-based system for beer samples, the festival is accessible to all. Breweries bring their best creations, and attendees can sample a range of traditional styles like dubbel, tripel, and quadrupel, as well as contemporary offerings like IPAs and barrel-aged beers. Live music and parades add to the festive atmosphere, making the event feel like a grand celebration of Belgian culture as much as beer.
For those wanting to take a deeper dive into the world of Belgian beer, this festival is a great opportunity to meet brewers and learn firsthand about the intricacies of their brewing processes. And since Brussels is the capital of the European Union, it’s a melting pot of cultures, giving the festival a truly international feel.
3. Tour de Geuze – Payottenland and the Zenne Valley
When: Every two years, first weekend of May
Where: Various breweries and blendings in the Payottenland region
For beer lovers with a specific interest in lambic and gueuze beers, the Tour de Geuze is a bucket-list event. This festival, which occurs every two years, focuses on the traditional lambic brewers and blenders of the Payottenland and Zenne Valley regions, located just outside Brussels. Lambic, one of Belgium’s most distinctive beer styles, is brewed using spontaneous fermentation, and it has a sour, complex flavor profile.
During the Tour de Geuze, many breweries and blendings that are typically closed to the public open their doors for guided tours and tastings. Visitors can explore the unique brewing methods behind lambic beers, including the process of blending lambic to create gueuze, a sparkling version of the style. This is an intimate festival where enthusiasts can learn about the deep history and heritage of these traditional Belgian beers.
The region itself is picturesque, with rolling hills and scenic landscapes, making the tour not only a beer lover’s dream but also a great way to explore the Belgian countryside. If you’re a fan of sour beers or interested in the art of spontaneous fermentation, the Tour de Geuze is an unmissable experience.
4. Beer Passion Weekend – Antwerp
When: End of June
Where: Groenplaats, Antwerp
Set in the charming city of Antwerp, the Beer Passion Weekend is another highlight on the Belgian beer festival calendar. Held in the lively Groenplaats square, with the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady as a backdrop, this three-day festival is a celebration of Belgian beer culture. The event brings together over 40 breweries, offering more than 200 different beers for sampling.
Beer Passion Weekend offers a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, with classic Belgian styles like witbier, pale ales, and Trappist beers alongside contemporary brews that reflect the creativity of the modern craft beer scene. The relaxed atmosphere makes it an excellent event for both casual beer drinkers and dedicated beer geeks.
What sets this festival apart is the setting. Antwerp, Belgium’s second-largest city, is known for its vibrant arts scene, fashion, and history. You can explore the city’s famous attractions, like the MAS Museum or the Rubens House, before or after the festival. Plus, with Antwerp being a major port city, you’ll find a diverse food scene to complement your beer-tasting adventures.
5. Belgian Beer Weekend – Hasselt
When: Mid-July
Where: Kolonel Dusartplein, Hasselt
Smaller and more intimate than some of the larger festivals, the Belgian Beer Weekend in Hasselt provides a cozy atmosphere for discovering regional beers. Held in the Limburg province’s capital, this event showcases over 100 beers from around 30 breweries, with an emphasis on Limburg’s local brewing talent. If you’re looking to discover beers that aren’t as widely distributed outside of Belgium, this is the perfect place to explore hidden gems.
The event features live music, food stalls, and beer pairings, creating a welcoming environment where you can enjoy both Belgian beer and Belgian hospitality. The setting in Kolonel Dusartplein, a large open square in the center of Hasselt, makes it easy to navigate the festival while soaking up the lively ambiance.
The Belgian Beer Weekend in Hasselt is also family-friendly, with activities for children, making it a great choice if you’re traveling with family or seeking a more laid-back festival experience.
6. Oktoberfest in La Roche-en-Ardenne – Ardennes Region
When: Mid-October
Where: La Roche-en-Ardenne, Ardennes
While Oktoberfest is typically associated with Germany, Belgium has its own version of this autumnal celebration. The Oktoberfest in La Roche-en-Ardenne, held in the scenic Ardennes region, combines the traditional Bavarian beer festival spirit with Belgian beer offerings. The event is smaller than its German counterpart but provides a unique experience in the heart of Belgium’s beautiful countryside.
The festival features Belgian and German beers, live music, traditional Bavarian food like sausages and pretzels, and a lively, festive atmosphere. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy Belgian brews with a twist, as the festival embraces the Oktoberfest theme. The town of La Roche-en-Ardenne, nestled in the Ardennes forest, is also a fantastic destination for hiking and nature lovers, making this festival a wonderful combination of beer, culture, and outdoor adventure.
7. Borefts Beer Festival – Sint-Gillis-Waas
When: End of September
Where: Brouwerij De Molen, Sint-Gillis-Waas
Although the Borefts Beer Festival is technically held at the Brouwerij De Molen just across the Dutch border, it has become a popular destination for Belgian beer lovers due to its proximity and the quality of the beers on offer. The festival features both Belgian and international breweries, making it an eclectic mix of styles and flavors.
Borefts is particularly popular among fans of more experimental and boundary-pushing beers, with many breweries showcasing limited-edition brews and collaboration projects. The festival often focuses on innovative brewing techniques, such as barrel-aging, souring, and wild fermentation, making it a playground for adventurous drinkers.
Although it’s not located within Belgium itself, the Borefts Beer Festival is a short journey from major Belgian cities and is well worth the trip for those looking to experience a more unconventional side of the beer world.
Conclusion: A Belgian Beer Adventure
Belgium’s beer festivals offer a rich tapestry of flavors, experiences, and cultural insights. Whether you prefer the lively and bustling atmosphere of the Brussels Beer Weekend, the historical focus of the Tour de Geuze, or the intimate charm of Hasselt’s Belgian Beer Weekend, there’s a festival for every type of beer lover. Beyond the incredible selection of beers, these festivals are a gateway into Belgian culture, where centuries-old brewing traditions meet modern creativity.
Visiting these festivals will not only expand your palate but also deepen your