Published on 24 April 2026
May in Belgium is the month of long weekends, free festivals and outdoor cafés coming to life in the spring sunshine. Whether you’re in Brussels or Namur, the calendar for May 2026 is packed with events. Here’s our selection of events and activities you won’t want to miss.
Brussels: a busy May
The Iris Festival (9 and 10 May)
Every year, May kicks off with the Brussels-Capital Region’s big festival. In 2026, the Fête de l’Iris gets underway on Friday evening with a free electronic music night on the Place des Palais, headlined by MEDUZA. On Sunday, the programme extends across several municipalities: an open day at the Brussels Parliament, Flora Open Air, the family-friendly Kidical Mass, and a craft market on Avenue de Tervueren between the Cinquantenaire and the Chien Vert. A 100% free and festive weekend, perfect for exploring the capital in a different way.
Les Nuits Botanique (14–31 May)
It is one of the most eagerly awaited music events of the Brussels spring. For its 33rd edition, Nuits Botanique offers an eclectic line-up featuring both Belgian and international artists, with performances taking place both indoors and outdoors. New this year: a single ticket grants access to all stages throughout the day. An unmissable festival for music lovers, set in an exceptional venue.
The Zinneke Parade (30 May)
To round off the month in style, the Zinneke Parade is back on the streets of Brussels. This biennial parade, which brings together residents, organisations and schools to create collective works (costumes, floats, performances), is one of the capital’s most original and community-focused events. From 3pm.
As for concerts and exhibitions
May also has some wonderful cultural surprises in store: Damso is performing at the ING Arena on 13 May, and there are several exhibitions to explore at BOZAR until mid-June. As for crafts, the Artisans en Scène Festival returns to Tour & Taxis on 9 and 10 May, featuring workshops, masterclasses and exhibitions.
Namur: a magical May
Namur Citadel is launching themed walks (from 3 May)
From 3 May until October, the Citadel of Namur is offering themed walks. This is a wonderful opportunity to (re)discover this historic monument from a fresh perspective, whilst enjoying the site’s lush green surroundings.
Namur in Choirs (30 and 31 May)
To round off the month on a high note, the Namur en Choeurs international choral festival takes over the city on 30 and 31 May. A unique cultural and musical event that brings choirs from all over the world to Namur’s most beautiful venues.
May is also the perfect time to enjoy Brussels’ outdoor cafés, take a trip to the Namur Ardennes, or treat yourself to a stroll along the Meuse. The days are getting longer, the parks are coming to life and open-air markets are springing up all over the place.
Whether you’re here on a business trip, on an internship or have settled in Belgium for the long term, May is the perfect month to explore your adopted city and build connections with your community.
At Flexiroom, we help people moving to Brussels or Namur by providing furnished, flexible and fully equipped accommodation. Because a great life in Belgium starts with a home that suits you.
Are you currently working, on an internship or living abroad? Discover our residences and join a community of residents. Discover our accommodation in Brussels and Namur
