Rommelmarkt Goegekregen

Antwerp Flea Markets 1 – 5 Events Per Month

Rommelmarkt Goegekregen organises several flea markets in different locations all around Antwerp each month since 2009. The initiative first started with some residents collaborating to arrange a jumbo sale. It allowed individuals to have an opportunity for selling or exchanging their items. Later, Goegekregen evolved as a non-profit organisation after some internal shuffling.

Not merely relying on a function to sell. Subsequently, Goegekregen wants to do more with a vision to build a bustling city for all. A place where the locals and visitors gather periodically to experience the vibrant atmosphere while selling their items. Thus, one of their slogans is to give the clothes a second life. It is also possible to donate your unused clothing to a good cause.

Cooperation with private initiatives for purely commercial purposes is not possible within their local resources. Since then, Rommelmarkt Goegekregen has combined efforts with several neighbourhood associations and other organisations from Antwerp to achieve its mission. Now, they have even expanded their sales to Gent.

Size of Goegekregen Flea Market

The scale of the flea market is dependent on the location and the number of participating sellers. With full occupancy, the number of booths can go as high as 200 at places like Park Spoor Nord and Theaterplein. Not surprising. With a mere 5 to 8 euros per metre, it is not costly to have a stand. Anyone can start trading second-hand items as well.

Goegekregen operates 1 to 5 flea markets every month. Most stalls are organised during the sizzling summer. On the contrary, January and February have the lowest records from 0 to 1. Undoubtedly, during winter, not many people want to come out of their cosy shelter. Hence, less crowd and motivation for the stallholders.

Goegekregen has won recognition and success from its supporters over the years, as evidenced by more than 27,000 likes on its Facebook Page. Hence, the best way to discover the next location is to like or follow their Facebook Page.

Date and Location of Goegekregen Rommelmarkt 2025

Below is a list of Goegekregen events and dates in Antwerp (Gent events not included here). It is always advisable to visit the flea market as early as possible to find the best value-for-money items. If you arrive too late, good things always go first.

Goegekregen Photo Gallery

» Rommelmarkt Spoor Oost

Rommelmarkt Spoor Oost is a massive free flea market that transforms the former railway terrain into a sprawling bazaar of over 300–400 stalls, covering more than a kilometre of browsing space. You’ll find everything from plants, vintage clothes and retro vinyl to furniture, antiques, art and whimsical curiosities. Perfect for bargain-hunters and creative souls alike.

Goegekregen @ Spoor Oost is a highlight of Antwerp’s summer scene with positive vibes. The atmosphere is casual and communal with some pop-up food, drink and waffle corners always in a long queue, and a bar for conversation and a short rest. Certainly ideal for strolling, discovering hidden treasures, and soaking in Antwerp’s vibrant flea-market culture.

» Rommelmarkt Kempisch Dok

Goegekregen Kempisch Dok is truly a vintage treasure hunt by the water, set against a romantic backdrop with a refreshing breeze. This lively flea market takes place at the marina on the Kempisch Dok in Antwerp’s Eilandje district — a unique location surrounded by boats and waterfront views. Visitors can expect rows of stalls filled with second-hand goods, antiques, books, curiosities, and plenty of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered

The event has a relaxed outdoor vibe, with stalls lined up along the water’s edge. It’s not only a great place to shop but also a perfect weekend outing. You can browse vintage clothing, collectables, and home décor, then enjoy a drink or snack at the event itself or at the nearby yacht clubs, accompanied by live performance. Whether you’re a collector, a bargain hunter, or simply looking for a fun day out in Antwerp, Rommelmarkt Kempisch Dok promises a unique and welcoming atmosphere.

» Rommelmarkt langs de Antwerpse Singel

Rommelmarkt langs de Antwerpse Singel flea market is at the open space car park of Desguinlei and Kielsevest street. Prices for clothes and bags usually start at €5, based on a few encounters in which we enquired. Bargaining may still be possible, but not too far from the quoted price. I had bought a pair of shorts, reducing the price from €5 to €4.

» Goegekregen in ‘t Stadspark

The starting point of Geogekregen in ‘t Stadspark is near to the street of Van Eycklei where the statue stands. Usually, there will be more than one point of the flea market in the Stadspark. You have to walk parallel to Van Eycklei street, further down to discover more vendors.

Depending on the number of vendors taking part, sometimes there might be a break in between the path where you might not see much second-hand on display. Continue walking. You will then see more spots with flea markets. During the warmer summer, the whole stretch of the pathway will run continuously with a lot of vendors and people. Another plus point is the mobile toilets available.

» SNITT. Vintage & Tweedehands Kledingmarkt at StAck

The second-hand market SNITT. Vintage & Tweedehands Kledingmarkt at StAck is on the street of Rijnkaai 150 and in front of Waagnatie Expo & Events. This flea market sells only clothing. A prominent eagle statue anchors along the spacious walkway of the flea market. Bars, food and plenty of seats are available too.

Located near to the Scheldt river, there are more things to do other than the vintage flea market. Take a walk admiring the serenity of the river or visit the nearest museum – Red Line Star Museum or MAS Museum. All museums in Antwerp are free of charge to the public on the last Sunday of every month.

Rommelmarkt Goegekregen

Antwerp Flea Markets 1 – 5 Events Per Month

Rommelmarkt Goegekregen organises several flea markets in different locations all around Antwerp each month since 2009. The initiative first started with some residents collaborating to arrange a jumbo sale. It allowed individuals to have an opportunity for selling or exchanging their items. Later, Goegekregen evolved as a non-profit organisation after some internal shuffling.

Not merely relying on a function to sell. Subsequently, Goegekregen wants to do more with a vision to build a bustling city for all. A place where the locals and visitors gather periodically to experience the vibrant atmosphere while selling their items. Thus, one of their slogans is to give the clothes a second life. It is also possible to donate your unused clothing to a good cause.

Cooperation with private initiatives for purely commercial purposes is not possible within their local resources. Since then, Rommelmarkt Goegekregen has combined efforts with several neighbourhood associations and other organisations from Antwerp to achieve its mission. Now, they have even expanded their sales to Gent.

Size of Goegekregen Flea Market

The scale of the flea market is dependent on the location and the number of participating sellers. With full occupancy, the number of booths can go as high as 200 at places like Park Spoor Nord and Theaterplein. Not surprising. With a mere 5 to 8 euros per metre, it is not costly to have a stand. Anyone can start trading second-hand items as well.

Goegekregen operates 1 to 5 flea markets every month. Most stalls are organised during the sizzling summer. On the contrary, January and February have the lowest records from 0 to 1. Undoubtedly, during winter, not many people want to come out of their cosy shelter. Hence, less crowd and motivation for the stallholders.

Goegekregen has won recognition and success from its supporters over the years, as evidenced by more than 27,000 likes on its Facebook Page. Hence, the best way to discover the next location is to like or follow their Facebook Page.

Date and Location of Goegekregen Rommelmarkt 2025

Below is a list of Goegekregen events and dates in Antwerp (Gent events not included here). It is always advisable to visit the flea market as early as possible to find the best value-for-money items. If you arrive too late, good things always go first.

Goegekregen Photo Gallery

» Rommelmarkt Spoor Oost

Rommelmarkt Spoor Oost is a massive free flea market that transforms the former railway terrain into a sprawling bazaar of over 300–400 stalls, covering more than a kilometre of browsing space. You’ll find everything from plants, vintage clothes and retro vinyl to furniture, antiques, art and whimsical curiosities. Perfect for bargain-hunters and creative souls alike.

Goegekregen @ Spoor Oost is a highlight of Antwerp’s summer scene with positive vibes. The atmosphere is casual and communal with some pop-up food, drink and waffle corners always in a long queue, and a bar for conversation and a short rest. Certainly ideal for strolling, discovering hidden treasures, and soaking in Antwerp’s vibrant flea-market culture.

» Rommelmarkt Kempisch Dok

Goegekregen Kempisch Dok is truly a vintage treasure hunt by the water, set against a romantic backdrop with a refreshing breeze. This lively flea market takes place at the marina on the Kempisch Dok in Antwerp’s Eilandje district — a unique location surrounded by boats and waterfront views. Visitors can expect rows of stalls filled with second-hand goods, antiques, books, curiosities, and plenty of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered

The event has a relaxed outdoor vibe, with stalls lined up along the water’s edge. It’s not only a great place to shop but also a perfect weekend outing. You can browse vintage clothing, collectables, and home décor, then enjoy a drink or snack at the event itself or at the nearby yacht clubs, accompanied by live performance. Whether you’re a collector, a bargain hunter, or simply looking for a fun day out in Antwerp, Rommelmarkt Kempisch Dok promises a unique and welcoming atmosphere.

» Rommelmarkt langs de Antwerpse Singel

Rommelmarkt langs de Antwerpse Singel flea market is at the open space car park of Desguinlei and Kielsevest street. Prices for clothes and bags usually start at €5, based on a few encounters in which we enquired. Bargaining may still be possible, but not too far from the quoted price. I had bought a pair of shorts, reducing the price from €5 to €4.

» Goegekregen in ‘t Stadspark

The starting point of Geogekregen in ‘t Stadspark is near to the street of Van Eycklei where the statue stands. Usually, there will be more than one point of the flea market in the Stadspark. You have to walk parallel to Van Eycklei street, further down to discover more vendors.

Depending on the number of vendors taking part, sometimes there might be a break in between the path where you might not see much second-hand on display. Continue walking. You will then see more spots with flea markets. During the warmer summer, the whole stretch of the pathway will run continuously with a lot of vendors and people. Another plus point is the mobile toilets available.

» SNITT. Vintage & Tweedehands Kledingmarkt at StAck

The second-hand market SNITT. Vintage & Tweedehands Kledingmarkt at StAck is on the street of Rijnkaai 150 and in front of Waagnatie Expo & Events. This flea market sells only clothing. A prominent eagle statue anchors along the spacious walkway of the flea market. Bars, food and plenty of seats are available too.

Located near to the Scheldt river, there are more things to do other than the vintage flea market. Take a walk admiring the serenity of the river or visit the nearest museum – Red Line Star Museum or MAS Museum. All museums in Antwerp are free of charge to the public on the last Sunday of every month.

* Date in 2026 is unknown yet. To be announced around March 2026… Stay tuned!

21 Enchanting Spots at Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken (FR: Serres Royales de Laeken, NL: Koninklijke Serres van Laken) are open for three weeks every year from mid-April to the first week of May. During spring, the colourful flowers are in full bloom anticipating the visitors to admire their spectacular glory.

It has always been a century-old tradition to allow the public to visit this historical monument. Since the greenhouses are part of the Royal Park, the private garden is closed to the public most of the year. Many tourists left with regret when they came to the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken at the wrong time.

Due to the three-week restricted time frame, locals, tour buses and tourists queue up in the morning at the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken’s entrance. The queue was even longer in the afternoon. Overall, expect the line to be several hundred metres of visitors.

The entrance ticket costs €7,00 and is free for children under 12. Nonetheless, advanced booking is still required. Book your ticket online on 20 March 2025. Hurry as the tickets will be sold out very fast! A pamphlet would cost an additional €1,00 at the ticket counter but the price is likely to increase now since my last visit a few years ago.

People with Reduced Mobility

People with reduced mobility have the privilege on *6 May 2025 (Tuesday), a special day set aside for them. To facilitate their movement, areas will be set up with ramps and bridges on the stairs. Some parts of the route will be adjusted slightly to make manoeuvering easier around the greenhouse complex. Wheelchair users may get help if there are volunteers around. No wheelchair can be rented there.

Why Pay €7,00?

€7 is still quite affordable considering that everyone can visit the royalty’s residence. Most importantly, part of the collected money funds the Queen’s Works and the restorative work. The Queen’s Works help people with financial, housing and social problems. A tour around the Royal Greenhouses confirmed that indeed, most of the steel structure and the glass panels are in dire need of some maintenance to restore their honour.

How to Go to The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken by Public Transport?

Numerous people visit the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken daily due to the 3 weeks limited duration. Drivers may have a problem finding a parking lot if they do not go there early in the morning based on my experience. The best is to ditch the vehicle and take public transport.

Buses from De Lijn and STIB-MIV can reach there and stop at “Serres Royales / Koninklijke Serres“. The bus journey takes approximately 45 minutes to arrive.

» Take a Bus – De Lijn (Bus R30 / R31) and STIB-MIV (Bus 53)

• If you take a train, alight at Brussel-Noord station.
• Click “More options” from the map below and take one of the buses.
• Alight at Serres Royales / Koninklijke Serres bus stop.

Royal Greenhouses of Laeken History

Despite the maintenance flaw, one has to take a good look at the astonishing greenhouses built for 31 years between 1874 to 1905 in several phases. The brilliant innovator of this enormous project in 1868 was King Leopold II.

He became the second king of Belgium after his father, King Leopold I who was a German prince who reigned over Belgium from 1831 to 1865. That was one year after Belgium gained its independence in 1830.

It was the ambition of King Leopold II to use Laeken for hosting important conferences and ceremonies. He first expanded the size of the castle and its surroundings. As part of the plan, he conceived the idea of constructing his supreme greenhouse complex using steel and glass.

Alphonse Balat was the architect whom King Leopold II entrusted to realise his vision in 1873. Twenty-two years later after Balat last breath in 1895, Henri Maquet and Charles Girault continued the development until 1905. King Leopold II passed away four years later in 1909 after witnessing the complete construction of his ideal glass city.

King Leopold II Passion for the Royal Greenhouses and His Beloved Botanical Collection

A walk inside the greenhouse complex might relate to King Leopold II ardent interest in the plantation. The Royal Greenhouses contain thousands of exotic plants and trees. Among all, King Leopold II favourite collection was the camellias. Whenever he travelled, he would bring back new plants frequently to his growing collection.

He was passionate about the construction and followed through with the architecture of the greenhouses for three decades. King Leopold II spent most of his final years in the Palm Pavilion. Thereafter, he also donated a large part of his treasured possession to the State which is managed by the ‘Royal Trust’ today.

There are two versions of plantations during the era of King Leopold that still exist to date. Both versions are ‘official’. In the first version, the information panels displayed outside the Royal Greenhouses mentioned one fact referencing some plants to be 200 years old.

In the second version, the pamphlet purchased from The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken stated that there was no more plantation left from the past. The remaining plants in the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken today came from the seedlings of the first specimen from the era of King Leopold II.

In conclusion, no matter what, the truth may not seem that important for visitors who visit the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken to see the gorgeous botanical collection.

Tour of Royal Greenhouses

Every greenhouse has a different theme and collection of trees or plants. All the routes inside the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken are directed by ropes. Due to the restriction, the visitors can only catch a glimpse of a few smaller sections of the gardens from outside. Therefore, visitors are not able to roam freely within the greenhouse complex.

Visitors have to follow the fixed route accordingly. On the other hand, they would not miss any of the greenhouses within the compound from this arrangement. When there are a lot of people, you are following within the queue in an orderly manner.

I have customised and marked the location of all the greenhouse points in the Google Map below. One suggestion for you. You can open the map of this page at Royal Greenhouses of Laeken and read to find out more about the greenhouse.

Alternatively, you can save this customised Google Maps onto your handphone before going there. The method only works on mobile:-

Note that the version saved on your mobile is non-satellite. If you want the satellite mode as shown, you have to refresh your map by keying in “Royal Greenhouses of Laeken”. Then, you can select the satellite background. The satellite background has been blurred like below for security reason, therefore, stick to the Default version.

Map of Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

① Orangery

The Orangery is the oldest monument of Royal Greenhouses of Laeken which greets you upon entering the compound. Constructed during the early 19th century, the chimneys on top of the building are the heating system. During winter, the trees are placed inside the Orangery. Otherwise, they remain outside to beautify the surroundings. The orange tree is one of them.

② Theatre Greenhouse

The Theater Greenhouse is the first greenhouse made of steel and glass after entering the Orangery building. Constructed in 1905, it was a more recent design by the architect, Charles Girault and not from the former architectural designers. It is a place to house the camellia plants during winter.

③ Queen Elisabeth Studio

One of the prominent sights is a lovely, cosy little cottage during a walk in the park. It is none other than Queen Elisabeth Studio. Queen Elisabeth Studio built in 1938 had its original condition preserved until now. During my visit, the studio was not open for visiting.

Though known for her humanitarian work during the First World War, Queen Elisabeth (1876 – 1965) and Eugène Ysaÿe who was a Belgian Violinist and Composer initialised another prominent project within the music industry internationally.

The Queen Elisabeth Competition started in 1937. The competition continues to date and Queen Matilde takes over the rein currently. The music contest aims to uncover new talented musicians by giving them ample media exposure.

④ Royal Park of Laeken

Directly opposite Queen Elisabeth Studio manifested a breathtaking scenery which halted the tracks of many visitors. It is the Royal Park of Laeken with a vast of lush greenery. The bizarre thing was that they had more interest in the scenery especially the full-bloom cherry blossom trees rather than Queen Elisabeth’s Studio.

Many people were busy snapping photos of the trees, the lake and the Japanese Tower at the Royal Castle of Laeken which was a distance away. When the wind blew, the petals of the cherry blossom would fly with the wind. Indeed, it was a very romantic sight. I had to admit that we lingered for quite some time too before proceeding with the route.

⑤ Iron Church

Iron Church has a green dome which is next to Queen Elisabeth Studio. Constructed in 1895 and supposed to be a royal chapel, online circulation mentioned that currently, the Iron Church houses a swimming pool instead. However, I could not find any photo or material to support the statement. Most importantly, the official pamphlet from Royal Greenhouses of Laeken was still printed as “Iron Church” instead of some other names.

⑥ Sacristy

Near to the Iron Church is the Sacristy. As the Iron Church and the Sacristy are not part of the visitor route, one can only see them from outside. In conclusion, the mystery of the royal swimming pool remains unverified.

⑦ Small Geranium Gallery

Before entering the Palm Greenhouse, you will first pass through a Small Geranium Gallery surrounded by lovely geranium flowering plants around you.

⑧ Débarcadère

After exiting from the small geranium gallery, you will walk through the Débarcadère first.

⑨ Loggia

Next, comes the Loggia which connects to the Palm Greenhouse.

⑩ Palm Greenhouse

There are a lot of big tropical plants and trees in the Palm Greenhouse like the palm trees and the fern trees. Splendidly decorated and possesses an extraordinary allure. If you look at the side of the iron support pillars carefully from a few photos below, you can see that they have Art Nouveau floral motifs on them. Somewhat, this particular area is mesmerising for the visitors probably due to the large trees against the attractive glass wall design.

⑪ Palm Pavilion

At the side exit of the Palm Greenhouse, a beautifully decorated staircase with flowers leads upward to a room. There is also a security officer guarding the staircase to be sure that no visitors would go up to the room discreetly. As the area is for the people to bypass and move to the right, one cannot stand there for more than a few seconds to take a photograph to avoid congestion.

It is no surprise to know that this high-security place is none other than Palm Pavilion where King Leopold II spent most of his last remaining years here. Therefore, the room has a rich historical value and needs special attention. Palm Pavillon is the only area where one can see a security guard during my visit.

⑫ Azalea Greenhouse

The Azalea Greenhouse built in 1885 was a rather narrow trail for admiring the cultivation of vibrant azalea plants. In this section, you would see a head sculpture of Louis Paras among the heap of plants. He was the Head Gardener for the Royal Estate from 1921 to 1939. Queen Elisabeth sculpted the bust of Louis Paras in her studio in 1939.

⑬ Geranium Gallery

Be stunned by the first part of the 200-metres route displaying geranium, fuchsia and hanging abutilon plants from the Geranium Gallery. Engulf in the bewitching flowers throughout the walk. Visitors are busy snapping photos. For once, feel pampered like a princess in the romantic atmosphere.

⑭ Diana Greenhouse

Somewhere in between the walk of Geranium Gallery, visitors enter into Diana Greenhouse where the green envelopes them such as the palm trees and soothing grass carpet.

⑮ Mirror Greenhouse

Forming the second half of the 200-metre route is an underground trail consisting of the Mirror Greenhouse and the Underground Gallery. Visitors will walk down the stairs. There is a slight change in the floral setting. The gallery walls are covered entirely with pruned climbing figs and oak ferns. Elkhorn ferns can be found on the gallery walls too.

⑯ Underground Gallery

It was quite surprising to see two Smurfs in the Underground Gallery of this historical monument. I could not figure out the purpose of the two cartoon characters there. Perhaps, it has to do with the fact that Smurfs was a Belgian creation in 1958. Well, rather entertaining even though they may not necessarily fit into the context.

⑰ Embarcadère Greenhouse

Also known as the Platform Greenhouse, the Embarcadère Greenhouse was one of the pioneer construction of the complex in 1886 which took nearly two years to complete. During the olden days, guests invited to a royal reception would arrive at the Embarcadère Greenhouse first.

If you pay attention to the two almost similar statues, they are Dawn and Dusk by Charles van der Stappen. Each sculpture stands at the outermost corner of the two rectangular sections of Platform Greenhouse. On the third photo below were three big lovely vases of Medinilla plants. King Leopold II had brought them back from the Far East. So, are those Medinilla plants or the porcelain vases from his century?

At the exit of Embarcadère Greenhouse is a replicate of Donatello’s David. The original statue is at Museo Nazionale del Bargello in Florence, Italy.

⑱ Congo Greenhouse

The Congo Greenhouse has a distinctive squarish surface area, four smaller square domes at each roof corner and a protruded octagonal ceiling in the middle. The little star that sticks out at the top of the octagonal dome is a symbol of the Congo Free State. The Congo Greenhouse has subtropical vegetation like palm trees, rubber trees and ferns.

Visitors can only admire the Congo Greenhouse from the outside as a result of undergoing renovation since 2014 due to alarming corrosion state. Therefore, the route is inaccessible to the public until further notice. In 2025, perhaps, you might get luckier than me once the renovation is done as I never get a chance to see what was inside.

⑲ Winter Garden

The Winter Garden receives the most publicity online thanks to its legendary icon of the majestic glass dome ceiling formed by 36 rafters and represented by a royal crown in the middle. Through close-up views of photos, you can see that there is Art Nouveau motif decoration on the support pillar bars.

Otherwise, it is quite difficult to spot the design from a distance for many people. One can feel the immense effort put in by the architectural designer even though the ceiling of the Winter Garden is so high up and not easy to appreciate.

Due to this stupendous glass dome ceiling images of Royal Greenhouses of Laeken seen online, I made my way to Royal Greenhouses of Laeken to witness the magnificent monument. In my opinion, the glass dome ceiling has the best maintenance of all. You can see a shiny coat of new green paint and unstained glass panels.

The Winter Garden was the first greenhouse built for King Leopold II. Due to its enormous space, the Winter Garden is the home to many species of palm trees. The Winter Garden’s first inauguration was in 1880 for the engagement of a royal family member, Princess Stéphanie.

⑳ Maquet Greenhouse

Constructed in 1902, Maquet Greenhouse took after the name of Henri Maquet who is one of the two architects responsible for completing the greenhouse complex after the death of Alphonse Balat in 1895. Maquet Greenhouse is 90° from Winter Greenhouse and not accessible to the public.

㉑ Banquet Greenhouse

Following the arranged path of the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, the Winter Greenhouse is the last conservatory to see the botanical collection of King Leopold II before arriving at the exit point of the Orangery building again. Over here, there are some souvenir stalls and large photos of the Royal Greenhouses for purchase.

There is one snack stall around the corner. At the corner of the building is the Banquet Greenhouse. After walking in the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken for a while, people can sit inside the Banquet Greenhouse to enjoy some sunlight.

Royal Greenhouses of Laeken Exterior

We have almost come to the end of my virtual tour. If you have missed the yearly event, hopefully, some of my photos will inspire you to visit the magnificent Royal Greenhouses of Laeken one of these days. To end this article, below are a few more photographs of the Royal Greenhouses’ exterior. I hope you enjoy reading it and like or share the article so that more people can see it, especially if they have not visited the magnificent place of interest yet.

More Places of Interest in Belgium

If you want more things to do or places to visit in Belgium every month, check out the article too.

Ciney Militaria Fair 2026

Ciney Militaria Fair 2026 is Europe’s most important military show every year. The event held two times a year attracts more than 12,000 visitors from all over the world. On 26 April 2026, Sunday, 9 am to 4 pm, it will hold its 79th edition of the exhibition and a spectacular display of military items at Hall 1 and Hall 2. The Ciney Militaria is in the province of Namur in the Wallonia region.

Expect more than 600 exhibitors from all over Europe like Germany, France, the Czech Republic, Poland, Italy, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and more. It is forbidden to exhibit any object displaying the SS or Nazi emblem (swastika) except to demonstrate that this object presents historical collection value.

Ciney Militaria Sales Item

Visitors can expect the following items listed below on 5 km of tables set inside the covered market and the Ciney Expo lobby:-

Next Event Date – Ciney Militaria on 25 October 2026

The 80th edition of the Ciney Militaria show will be held on 25 October 2026, Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm at the same venue. Children under 15 years old enter free of charge.

* 2026 dates are only an estimate and will be updated in April 2026.

Free Entry at Zwemvijver Boekenberg Natural Outdoor Pool during Summer!

If you are planning to go swimming in Antwerp during the hot summer and have not discovered Zwemvijver Boekenberg, this should be one of the swimming pools that you should not miss.

Zwemvijver means ‘swimming pond’ in English. The location is at Boekenberg which is in Deurne and near to Berchem. Moreover, Zwemvijver is right in the middle of a park, Boekenbergpark. Coincidentally, it is also near the Antwerp International Airport.

What is So Unique about Zwemvijver Boekenberg Ecological Pool?

➀ First and most important of all, the swimming pond is ecological. It makes use of the plants and stones as a water filter to purify the plant. That means no drying effects of chlorine and other harmful chemicals on the skin. The cold and purifying water is sure to rejuvenate you as well.

➁ There are two pools over there. The large pool is 73 m long with a depth of 1.80 m and 2.50 m. The small pool has a depth of 50 cm and is mainly for children.

➂ There is a large lawn over there. If swimming is not your interest, how about a picnic with your family and friends under the sun? The surface of the lawn is flat. So, it is indeed comfortable to place just a thin cloth and lie on a flat surface.

➃ Secure your belongings with ease. Lockers are available at a coin of 2 euro. At the end of the day, you can take back the 2 euro coin. If you intend to use the locker, arrive earlier as it gets more crowded in the afternoon so there might not be enough lockers for use.

➄ Within walking distance from Zwemvijver Boekenberg, there is a playground for the children. Although this is not the main attraction, it serves its purpose to keep them busy.

➅ You can play badminton in the open field beside the playground if there are not many people. As there is not much wind due to the side fences, the location is better than some other windy open fields. Bring your rackets though.

➆ Is free entry to the incredible all-natural swim site another unique feature to boast? The best things come for free. If you have a bike, it seems to be the most flexible way to get there easily and to spend a perfect afternoon swimming, suntanning, talking and eating!

Things to Note at Zwemvijver Boekenberg Outdoor Pool

❶ Wear an appropriate swimsuit because many are refused entry into the swimming site due to inappropriate swimwear. Here, I refer to the men who wear loose shorts. The men should wear appropriate swimming trucks. The security guards even have pictures on their hands to show what is the correct type of swimwear. If they refuse entry to these people, they are still allowed to remain on the lawn.

❷ For ladies, no T-shirt over the swimsuit or bikini in the swimming pool. Girls with long hair should tie their hair.

❸ Go as early as you can as in the afternoon, the lawn is full of people. It is likely that you would still be able to find a picnic or suntan spot there, but the position might not be ideal.

❹ During peak hours when there are many people in the afternoon, there would be an announcement in Dutch. It means that visitors can only swim for a block of 15 minutes. Usually, only 150 visitors are allowed into the swimming pond each time. In this instance, you can see a long queue outside the swim site. However, in 2o2o, only 60 people can enter into the swim site due to the corona measures.

❺ No sitting on the edge of the wooden platform along the swimming pool circumference. It is for the lifeguards to walk. They are constantly looking around the swim site for rules breakers.

❻ Water might still be cold in early summer as the temperature has not warmed it up enough. On the other hand, whether the water is cold or not is subjective.

❼ No food and drinks sold over there though. You have to self-supply your own. If you are lucky, there will be a van coming in the afternoon to sell ice cream. The business is good with a lot of people queueing up to buy from the ice cream truck.

Zwemvijver Boekenberg 2025 Time

The Zwemvijver Boekenberg opens daily even during the public holiday because I had been there. The electronic gate automatically closes half an hour before the closing time. Everyone had to leave the water in the next fifteen minutes.

*The scheduled time from 17 May to 14 September 2025: 

• Monday to Saturday
  • Time: 12 pm to 7 pm

• Sunday
  • Time: 11 am to 6 pm

How to Get to Zwemvijver Boekenbergpark?

By Velo

The nearest Velo Station to reach Zwemvijver Boekenberg is Velo Station No. 254 – Sint Jozef. Walk 400 metres for 5 minutes to reach the swim site.

By Bus

The swimming site is easily accessible by public transport. Alight at Deurne Unitaslaan. Walk 300 metres for 4 minutes to reach the swim site.

For more things to do monthly, check out Monthly Timeless Affairs.

Daily Water Temperature

If you like to know the water temperature of the swim site before going, check out the link. I think it is useful to know particularly when the weather is not that warm yet. Have fun and let me know what you think of this place if you have been there. Enjoy! :>

* Date in 2026 is unknown yet. To be announced around March-April 2026… Stay tuned!

Medieval Market Etterbeek 2026

Activities Highlight for 30th Edition

For the past 29 years, one of the key events in the Etterbeek municipality is the Medieval Market (Marché Médiéval d’Etterbeek). Participants will have three days of unforgettable memories through the discovery of the Middle Ages, its folklore, and its traditions over the weekend. This year, it will be a 3-day fun affair from 30 May to 1 June 2025 @ Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels.

The Medieval Market usually happens three days before Pinkstermaandag (though it is an exception in 2025). Also known as Whit Monday, or Pentecost Monday, it is a Christian holiday that commemorates the descent of the Holy Ghost upon the disciples of Jesus Christ, according to the New Testament of the Bible.

In this 30th edition highlight of the festival in Brussels, you can expect a lot of folkloristic characters and crafts come to life right before your eyes, like saddlers, blacksmiths, potters, carpenters, stonecutters, archers and arrows, etc. A hundred artisans and exhibitors come from France, Germany, Luxembourg and Poland for this commemorative tradition.

There will also be a demonstration of sword fighting by the knights from no less than three companies. The Belgian Federation of Medieval Fencing will also be present. Mesnie du Phoenix, a medieval company of craftsmen, propose workshops in addition to the present camp: hangman wandering, calligraphy and illumination workshop, sewing and embroidery.

Throughout the weekend, the musical group “Varius Coloribus” and “Acus Vaccum” will take charge of the musical performance and concerts. No less than 180 exhibitors from all over Belgium and throughout Europe will present their artisan products.

Gourmands will be pampered with choices among medieval food stalls carried out in the Middle Ages. Trades such as blacksmiths, stonemasons, master tailors, and manufacturers of arrows and bows come alive at this majestic event. A special highlight will be a wooden rail horse on a pyramid of medieval maps.

Be curious about the taste difference between medieval times as compared to modern times. The mentioned activities consist of only a part of all the activities proposed during the 30th Medieval Market of Etterbeek. Be there to witness the knights in shining armour!

Operating Hours 2025

The event will enchant the public on Cinquantenaire Park (around the fountain) on the three dates:

• Friday, 30 May 2025:  4 pm to 10 pm
• Saturday, 31 May 2025:  10 am to 10 pm
• Sunday, 1 June 2025: 10 am to 8 pm

How to Go to Parc du Cinquantenaire by Train?

The nearest metro station to alight is Bruxelles-Schuman. Walk approximately 6 minutes for 500 metres.

Celebrating 30 Years of the Medieval Market

Join the celebration of three decades of history, tradition, and community spirit! To mark the 30th anniversary of the Etterbeek Medieval Market, the Culture and Entertainment departments are teaming up to present a special anniversary exhibition. From 5 to 16 June 2025, visit the Free Entry Area of the communal hotel and take a nostalgic journey through time.

The exhibition features a vibrant collection of posters from the past 30 years, iconic costumes, memorable objects, and a unique immersive experience that brings the spirit of the medieval market to life. Want to dive deeper into the celebrations? Discover the full program of events, activities, and entertainment planned for the 30th Medieval Market of Etterbeek.

For more things to do in Belgium during the summer in Belgium, check out Timeless Monthly Events.