Belgium is located in Western Europe and is a country strongly influenced by a maritime climate. It is characterized by mild temperatures and relatively high precipitation throughout the seasons, with a variety of events held each season. Below, I will introduce the climate features and main events in Belgium by season.
Spring (March - May)
Climate Features
- Temperature: Around 5-10°C in March, rising close to 20°C in May
- Precipitation: Average rainfall throughout the month. Humidity is high
- Feature: A season when sunlight hours increase and flowers begin to bloom
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description/Relation to Climate |
| March |
Brussels Film Festival |
An indoor event that can be enjoyed even in changeable spring weather |
| April |
Floralia Flower Festival (biannual) |
A gardening event held in line with the blooming of spring flowers |
| April |
Easter |
A Christian event celebrating the arrival of spring. Many activities are spent with family both indoors and outdoors. |
| May |
Brussels Jazz Weekend |
With milder weather, performances on outdoor stages are popular. |
| May |
Ascension Day |
Although a religious event, it is a time when family trips and outings increase as a holiday. |
Summer (June - August)
Climate Features
- Temperature: An average of 20-25°C. Although there are few extreme heat days, it can reach close to 30°C in some years.
- Precipitation: There may be sudden thunderstorms, but overall it is mild.
- Feature: The longest hours of sunlight and an active season for tourism and events.
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description/Relation to Climate |
| June |
Omega Family Marathon (Liège) |
Many sunny days lead to health events held around the country. |
| July |
Belgian National Day (July 21) |
Military parades and fireworks are held in comfortable weather without it being too hot. |
| July |
Tomorrowland (Music Festival) |
A world-famous outdoor festival held with tens of thousands of attendees in good summer weather. |
| August |
Bruges Early Music Festival |
An event where comfortable daytime temperatures harmonize with historical architecture and music. |
| August |
Antwerp Summer Carnival |
With stable weather, parades in costumes and stalls enliven the city streets. |
Autumn (September - November)
Climate Features
- Temperature: Around 20°C in September, dropping below 10°C in November.
- Precipitation: Rain becomes more frequent starting in October, with increased fog and cloudy days.
- Feature: Autumn leaves can be seen while sunlight hours gradually decrease.
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description/Relation to Climate |
| September |
Brussels Comic Festival |
Indoor and outdoor events make it a suitable time for tourism when temperatures settle. |
| September |
Walloon Region Festival (Namur) |
Enjoy traditional costumes, music, and food culture. The heat also eases, making it easier to stroll around. |
| October |
Film Festival (Ghent) |
An indoor cultural event suitable for the rainy season. |
| October |
Halloween |
Indoor events predominate in homes and schools. With early sunsets, it matches the atmosphere. |
| November |
Ardennes Mushroom Hunting Festival |
A nature experience event in forested areas. Enjoy autumn flavors and foliage. |
Winter (December - February)
Climate Features
- Temperature: Around 0-5°C. Snow is rare, but cloudy days are common and sunlight is short.
- Precipitation: Cold rain falls frequently, and temperatures can drop below freezing.
- Feature: The air is humid, and indoor culture is predominant.
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description/Relation to Climate |
| December |
Christmas Markets (various cities) |
Outdoor events where hot wine and illuminations can be enjoyed amid the cold. |
| December |
St. Nicholas Day (December 6) |
A custom of giving gifts to children, focusing on events in homes and schools. |
| January |
New Year Celebration Events |
Indoor parties and firework displays occur. Active exchanges even during the cold season. |
| January |
Temporary Ice Skating Rinks |
Skating rinks are set up in city squares, providing winter recreation. |
| February |
Carnival (Binche) |
A costume event held in mid-winter. Citizens enjoy traditions despite the cold. |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Climate Relations
| Season |
Climate Features |
Main Event Examples |
| Spring |
Mild with more rain and blooming flowers |
Easter, flower festival, film festival |
| Summer |
Warm with longer daylight and thunderstorms |
National Day, music festival, summer carnival |
| Autumn |
Gradually decreasing temperatures, increased rain and clouds |
Comic festival, traditional festival, mushroom hunting festival |
| Winter |
Low temperatures with short daylight, frequent rain and fog |
Christmas markets, St. Nicholas festival, New Year celebrations, carnival |
Additional Notes
- Belgium experiences frequent rainfall throughout the year, so rainy day measures are important for both indoor and outdoor events.
- There are many music, food culture, and religious events that change with the seasons, with events showcasing unique regional characteristics.
- In urban areas, illuminations and cultural events are emphasized, while in rural areas, nature experiences and traditional festivals are prioritized, reflecting a harmony between urban and nature in the culture.
Seasonal events in Belgium are closely linked to climate changes, fostering a rich culture that allows people to experience the transitions of nature within tourism and daily life.
Light rain shower