Belgium takes its festivals seriously.
Carnival of Binche (February/March) — The most famous carnival in Belgium, held in the small Walloon town of Binche in the days before Ash Wednesday. The highlight is the procession of Gilles — men in elaborate costumes and wax masks who throw oranges into the crowd. UNESCO lists it as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Worth the trip.
Brussels Jazz Weekend (late May) — Three days of free open-air jazz concerts across the city. The main stages are on the Grand-Place and Place Sainte-Catherine. Relaxed and very Belgian.
Gentse Feesten / Ghent Festivities (late July, 10 days) — One of the largest free street festivals in Europe. The entire historic centre of Ghent transforms into an outdoor party with hundreds of stages, street performers, and temporary bars. Free entry everywhere; accommodation books up months in advance.
Tomorrowland (late July, two weekends) — The world's most famous electronic music festival, held in Boom near Antwerp. Enormous, expensive, and sells out within hours of tickets going on sale. A world of its own for those who go.
Brussels Beer Weekend (early September) — Held on the Grand-Place, this is one of the best occasions to sample a huge range of Belgian beers in one place. Breweries from across the country set up stands; entry is free.
Procession of the Holy Blood (Bruges, Ascension Day) — A religious procession that has taken place since the Middle Ages, carrying a relic said to contain the blood of Christ through the streets of Bruges. A striking piece of living tradition.
Procession of Penitents (Veurne, last Sunday of July) — Since 1644, penitents have carried heavy wooden crosses through Veurne in this solemn annual procession. Austere and moving.
Christmas Markets (December–January) — Brussels' market on and around the Grand-Place is among the better ones in Europe. Ghent, Bruges, and Liege all run their own. The season runs from late November through early January.