Good Time to Visit

Weather

You're unlikely to encounter extremes in weather during an average Belgian year. April to September is the warmest time, but be prepared for grey skies and soggy streets no matter what time of year you go. Visitors may be forgiven for assuming umbrellas and raincoats are part of the Belgian national dress.

In Brussels (elevation 100 m), average temperatures are at their lowest in January at 2°C (with a minimum of -1°C and a maximum of 4°C), and their highest in July/August, at 17°C (with a minimum of 12°C and a maximum of 22°C). Rainfall averages from 4 to 8 cm a month, with the greatest amounts falling in July and October, and the lowest amounts falling in spring.

Festivals

Festivals play a major role in Belgium's cultural life. Nearly every city and town has its own festival, some that date back several centuries. Two of the biggest festivals are the three-day carnival at Binche, near Mons, held just before Lent (the 40 days between Ash Wednesday and Easter), and the Procession of the Holy Blood, held in Bruges in May. During the carnival in Binche, 'Gilles' lead the procession, which are men dressed in high, plumed hats and bright costumes.

Brussels' most festive months are July and August. In July, there's the historical Ommegang pageant, a huge parade in honour of Emperor Charles and his son. Belgium's colourful National Day is 21 July, which also marks the start of the month-long Brussels Fair.

Throughout the year there are jazz festivals, religious processions, local fairs, film festivals and classical music extravaganzas. In Ypres, Armistice Day on 11 November is a particularly important day. Christmas markets are held throughout the country during the lead up to the festival.

Public Holidays

The following table shows the public holidays celebrated in Belgium: