Another weekend, another festival. Held on the third weekend of August each year, Bollekesfeest is three days of live music performances plus sampling local food and drinks. “Bolleke” refers to the ball-like shape of the glasses in which Antwerp’s De Koninck brewery serves its beer. This is what I love about Europe. Sitting at an outdoor cafe for lunch on a beautiful day, listening to lively music, and enjoying a festival.
A lively atmosphere in Antwerp’s city center for Bollekesfeest.
The bolleke glass after which the festival is named. Proost! Photo credit: fullsuitcase.com
Bollekesfeest began in 2007 when then-Mayor Patrick Janssens wanted to give a forum to Antwerp brands and make Antwerp residents proud of their city. It’s held each year in the city center adjacent to the city’s magnificent 16th century City Hall and flanked by its historic guild houses.
August 25, 2025