What to do in Brussels in May 2024

Updated July 20, 2024 by Pierre

Immerse yourself in a universe of possibilities as Brussels invites you to explore a multitude of exciting events and experiences unique this month. Whether you are attracted by nature, passionate about art, music fanatic or simply eager for discovery, the Belgian capital offers a range of options to satisfy all tastes. Here is our selection of moments not to be missed in Brussels this month of May!

1. 🎶🌸 Iris Festival – May 8

Celebrate the Iris Festival in the heart of Brussels on May 8. Between gourmet food trucks, guided tours and music, this emblematic event promises a festive day for everyone. Don't miss the opportunity to take part in this celebration of Brussels culture!

2. 🎉🎶 Flash : Official Pride After Party – May 18 2024

La Flash, the official Pride after party, promises to be the highlight of your May 18 weekend with 8 hours of fiery DJ sets, unique sets and memorable performances from artists and drag queens, all in an LGBTQIA+-friendly atmosphere where you are invited to come as you are. Located in one of the most legendary clubs in Brussels, this unmissable event is the perfect opportunity to celebrate after Pride. Make sure to book your tickets now for this unique experience!

Experience a colorful evening at the famous La Flash after party on May 18. On the program: DJ sets, incredible performances, all in a festive and relaxed atmosphere. Don't miss this unmissable event in Brussels nightlife!

3. 🍹🌆 Cocktails with a View to the Sky (All month of May) )

Head to the top of The Hoxton Brussels hotel to enjoy exquisite cocktails with stunning views of the city. Enjoy this unique experience in a chic and elegant setting, and let yourself be seduced by the magic of Brussels nights.

4. 🌳🌷 Blooming of Hyacinths in Bois de Hal (All month of May )

Immerse yourself in the heart of nature and be amazed by the blooming of blue hyacinths in Hallebos. Every year, around the end of April/beginning of May, this forest is adorned with a breathtaking blue carpet, offering a spectacle of striking beauty. Don't miss this natural wonder!

Find out more here in our article dedicated to Hallerbos

5. 🖼️🌌 Infinite Realities at the MOIR Museum (All month of May )

Immerse yourself in a fascinating universe at the Museum of Infinite Realities (MOIR), where art takes on a whole new dimension. Explore 7 interactive rooms and be surprised by unique sensory experiences. A museum experience not to be missed!

6. 🚢🔍 Titanic Exhibition (All month of May) )

Discover the fascinating history of the Titanic through an immersive exhibition at Tour et Taxis. Featuring more than 200 objects recovered from the wreck site, this exhibition will take you into the heart of one of history's most famous maritime tragedies.

7. 🍽️🤝 Dixner’s Friendly Experience (All month of May )

Tired of disappointing dates and lonely evenings? Embark on the Dixner adventure! This innovative concept allows you to share a dinner with strangers carefully selected for you. A friendly evening guaranteed!

Dixner, a gastronomic and social gem, has revolutionized Parisian evenings since its emergence a year ago. Designed by the creative mind of Astrid Beaufils, this innovative concept transcends the simple dinner to offer an authentic human experience. With a capacity limited to only 10 guests per event, Dixner promotes sincere exchanges and enriching encounters, far from usual meetings. During the event, participants can enjoy a full feast in the privacy of a renowned restaurant, all orchestrated by a dedicated ambassador. It's much more than a meal, it's an invitation to meet new people

8. 🥐🥂Grand Brunch at the Barsey Hotel – May 26

Like every last Sunday of the month, join the Barsey by Warwick Hotel for a grandiose brunch on May 26. It seems that it is the biggest brunch in Brussels! With its Greek palace feel and exquisite dishes, this brunch is a gastronomic experience not to be missed. Book now for an unforgettable gourmet morning!

9. 🏰🌿 Royal Greenhouses of Laeken – Until May 20

Marvel at the splendor of the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, open to the public until May 20. Explore this architectural and botanical gem, testimony to Belgium's royal history, and let yourself be transported into a world of greenery and beauty.

10. 🦖🌋 Dinos Alive immersive experience (All month of May )

Dinosaur fans, this experience is for you! Immerse yourself in the prehistoric world of Dinos Alive and discover incredible animations, thematic workshops and encounters with life-size animated dinosaurs. An unforgettable adventure for the whole family!

11. Magritte: The Immersive Experience (All month of May )

Immerse yourself in the surrealist world of René Magritte through an immersive experience at Galerie Horta. With more than 300 digital works, this exhibition offers a total immersion in the work of the famous Belgian painter. A breathtaking artistic experience! 🎨🌀

12. 🎶🎷 Lotto Brussels Jazz Weekend – From May 24 to 26 2024

Vibrate to the rhythm of jazz during the Lotto Brussels Jazz Weekend from May 24 to 26. With concerts in emblematic places of the city and a varied program highlighting Belgian artists, this event is an unmissable event for music lovers.

13. 🕯️🎵 Candlelight Concerts (All month of May )

Immerse yourself in the unique Candlelight experience, where music is reimagined in a new light. In spectacular locations never before used as concert halls, these intimate candlelight performances allow you to rediscover music in a completely immersive way. From Bach to the Beatles, including Vivaldi, Aretha Franklin, Ludovico Einaudi, Queen and Coldplay, a multitude of musical genres are highlighted in our varied programming. Each location is carefully selected to enrich the musical experience, whether under the stars or in a room with unique architecture, the atmosphere will leave you speechless. The talents of professional musicians from the four corners of the world will dazzle you, with ensembles that perfectly match the program: string quartet, brass ensemble, solo pianist, vocals and guitar, and much more. The unique ambiance created by hundreds of candles illuminating the place adds a touch of serenity that enhances your listening experience.

14. Nocturnes of the Brussels Museums – Every Thursday of May

Immerse yourself in the cultural delights of Brussels with Brussels Museums Nocturnes. From April 11 to May 23, 2024, all Thursday evenings, in the various museums of the Brussels Region (including those of the City of Brussels), this captivating initiative invites you to discover the hidden treasures of the city's museums and art centers.

The Brussels Museums Nocturnes offer you the exclusive opportunity to immerse yourself in current exhibitions and permanent collections through guided tours, privileged access to backstage areas and reserves, as well as tailor-made artistic workshops. Every Thursday evening offers its share of unique discoveries, with special events organized at various museums around the city. Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of Brussels in a new light.

• Thursday April 11:
  • Coudenberg Palace : Underground journey to discover the palace of Charles V and a stand-up show by Glou Comedy Club.
  • Brussels City Museum: Exhibition “Play your bets!” », guided tours, “Voices of Travelers” performance and giant goose game “Bruskwer”.
• Thursday May 2:
  • Sewer Museum: “Rattus” exhibition, guided tours, stories at the museum on the theme of sewers and their inhabitants.
• Thursday May 9:
  • Wardrobe Manneken-pis : “19 communes” exhibition, guided tours, “Manneken-Pis ephemeral tattoo” workshop.

15. 🏃‍♂️🏅 20 km from Brussels – May 26 2024

Get ready for a thrilling sporting adventure during the Brussels 20km on May 26. Runners and walkers are invited to explore the city's most beautiful streets in a festive and friendly atmosphere. Ready to take the challenge ?

16. Europe Day

Immerse yourself in a celebration of Europe in the heart of Brussels. An immersive exhibition, thematic villages, the history of the EU, our values ​​and our achievements can be discovered at Europe Day. A unique opportunity to discover behind the scenes of European construction and to meet our team. Whether you are a European citizen preparing to vote in the upcoming European elections or simply curious to discover the EU more closely, don't miss this enriching experience. Join us at the Berlaymont from May 4 to 9, 2024 for a day full of discoveries and entertainment for the whole family.