What to Experience in De Haan: Events & Activities
Below, you'll find our selection of the finest events in De Haan and the surrounding region. Especially in the summer, there are almost daily festivities, ranging from markets and folklore to music performances and sporting events. Yet, even outside the summer season, there's plenty to enjoy in terms of varied activities.
Weekly markets on the Belgian coast
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A weekly market is a great way to experience the Belgian coast. Almost every day there is a market somewhere along the coast, with fresh vegetables, fish, cheese, flowers and clothing. Below you will find the weekly markets in the seaside resorts by day, plus Bruges and Ypres. Markets on Monday - Blankenberge: Grote ...
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Weekly Market
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The charming Belgian seaside town of De Haan hosts a lively, small-scale public market every Wednesday along the Driftweg, near the monumental tram station. What to expect at the De Haan Market? - Authentic Flemish Atmosphere: Experience the authentic coastal culture with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the lively ...
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Weekly Market in Wenduine
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Every Thursday, the Market Square of Wenduine, in front of the charming former town hall, transforms into a lively and atmospheric market square. This real Flemish market is small-scale, cosy, and full of local charm. What to expect at Wenduine’s weekly market? - Local vibe: Meet proud market vendors, chat with the lo ...
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Fireworks in Blankenberge
Blankenberge knows exactly how to end a festive evening: with a spectacular seaside fireworks show! A magical experience for both young and old. When can you expect Fireworks in Blankenberge? Every year, there are three fixed moments when the sky above the beach lights up in all the colours of the rainbow. 21 July, ...
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Funfair in Blankenberge
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The annual Stationskermis in Blankenberge is a popular event that brings together young and old for ten days of fun and entertainment. This charming fair takes place every spring at the Koning Leopold III Square, just near the Blankenberge train station. What can you expect at the Stationskermis in Blankenberge? - Classic ...
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Blessing of the horses
Early November
After the high mass, Vlissegem has an annual horse blessing: dozens of horses, carts and small pets ensure the hustle and bustle in the white polder village.
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Ice Rink – Winter
During the Christmas holidays, the charming coastal town of De Haan transforms into a cosy winter village full of lights, music and cheer. Young and old alike can enjoy a warm winter atmosphere during Winter in De Haan in the beautiful Park La Potinière. What can you expect during Winter in De Haan? - Ice Rink: In the ...
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Christmas FUN Run
End of December
Sportdienst De Haan invites everyone for a cheerful and unique running experience. The route meanders through the picturesque Park La Potinière, the historic Concessiewijk, and past twinkling Christmas markets. Christmas Spirit in Action - Christmas Costume: A standout detail? All participants are required to run in a ...
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Funfair in Bredene
The Easter Funfair in Bredene, also known as the Easter Fair, is a festive annual event held during the Easter period. This traditional fair brings together young and old for a lively and cheerful funfair experience on the Belgian coast. What can you expect at the Easter Funfair in Bredene? - Cosy Funfair Atmosphere: This ...
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Grilles sprats
The Sprotjesfeest in Wenduine is an annual culinary highlight where you can savour the true taste of the sea. This cosy winter event traditionally takes place on Boxing Day at the Markt and brings together the local community and visitors for a festive afternoon filled with treats and atmosphere. What can you expect at ...
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2027
Weekly Market
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The charming Belgian seaside town of De Haan hosts a lively, small-scale public market every Wednesday along the Driftweg, near the monumental tram station. What to expect at the De Haan Market? - Authentic Flemish Atmosphere: Experience the authentic coastal culture with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the lively ...
Read more
Weekly Market in Wenduine
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Every Thursday, the Market Square of Wenduine, in front of the charming former town hall, transforms into a lively and atmospheric market square. This real Flemish market is small-scale, cosy, and full of local charm. What to expect at Wenduine’s weekly market? - Local vibe: Meet proud market vendors, chat with the lo ...
Read more
Fun Fair
Twice a year, the charming De Haan temporarily transforms into a bustling fairground village. At the Oude Loskaai, just a short walk from the centre and the beach, you can enjoy a nostalgic fair filled with atmosphere, lights, and fun. What can you expect from the fairs in De Haan? - Twice a year fair fun:- Crocus Fair: ...
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Shell Counting Day
Take part in the annual Shell Counting Day and discover just how special the beach really is. What is Shell Counting Day? During this accessible citizen science initiative, you search along the tide line for shells and help researchers gain valuable insights into life in and around the North Sea. - Counting shells ...
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Veloopzwem De Haan (triathlon)
In maart
The Veloopzwem in De Haan is a national classic that opens the triathlon season every spring. The swim takes place in the Wielingenbad pool in Wenduine, after which competitors cycle and run through De Haan. What can you expect at the Veloopzwem? - Swim: 500 m in the pool. - Bike: 28 km. - Run: 8.6 km. - Tradition: 2026 ...
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Carnival Parade in Bredene
Every year, on the Saturday before Easter, the festivities kick off in Bredene with the colourful and lively Carnival Parade. This spectacle brings music, dance, and joy to the streets of the coastal town, attracting countless spectators. What can you expect at the Carnival Parade in Bredene? - Festive Procession: At ...
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Sea Blessing
The annual Sea Blessing in Wenduine is a beautiful tradition that takes place every Whit Monday. What can you expect during the Sea Blessing in Wenduine? - Ceremony: This unique ceremony honours the sea, the fishermen, and the Holy Cross, which according to legend was fished up by the fishermen of Blankenberge. This ...
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Evening Market in Wenduine
The Evening Markets in Wenduine are an annual summer event held along the atmospheric Zeedijk. In July and August, a total of five evening markets are organised, the perfect way to end a delightful summer day. What can you expect at the Evening Markets in Wenduine? - Summer Vibes: Stroll along the sea-facing stalls on a ...
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Flanders Sings in Ostend
Experience a unique singing event at the Sint-Petrus-en-Paulusplein in Ostend during the annual Flanders Sings event. This free event invites everyone to sing along and enjoy a wide range of songs that are part of our collective memory. What to Expect at Flanders Sings in d'Ostend? - Central Audience: At Flanders Sings, ...
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Coq Rock
The Coq Rock festival in Vosseslag is an annual rock and metal festival that guarantees a day full of heavy guitars, powerful vocals, and an energetic atmosphere. What can you expect at Coq Rock in Vosseslag? - Diverse Line-up: This free festival provides a stage for both emerging talents and established names in the rock ...
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Kite Festival in Wenduine
For two days, the beach between Wenduine and De Haan transforms into a sea of colour and creativity. The Lupulus Kite Festival is the perfect moment to enjoy wind, sunshine and impressive kites together. What can you expect during the Kite Festival? - Location: On the wide beach near Cabane Westhinder, just south of ...
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Riesenrad in Ostende
Are you spending the coming weeks on the Belgian coast? Then do not miss the spectacular Ferris wheel on the seafront promenade in Oostende! This summer, you can enjoy a breathtaking view over the "Queen of Seaside Resorts". What can you expect? - Panoramic view: Take a seat in one of the gondolas and admire the panoramic ...
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Fireworks in Wenduine
11 juli (Vlaamse feestdag)
Every summer on 11 July, the sky above Wenduine lights up with a magical spectacle of sound and colour. A festive finale to a perfect summer day at the coast! What can you expect? - Beautiful location: The fireworks are launched from the beach, right near De Rotonde and close to the Floorhelling, a unique setting with sea ...
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Parkies
Every summer, the charming Park La Potinière in De Haan transforms into a vibrant open-air theatre. The Parkies concerts are the perfect way to end a beach day or enjoy a cosy summer evening with friends or family. What makes Parkies in De Haan so special? - Free concerts: Tuesday concerts with no entrance fee, just ...
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Kok@Zee
Every summer in July, the lush Park La Potinière in De Haan transforms into a charming outdoor event for food lovers: Kok@Zee. This free-to-enter food festival is the perfect place to enjoy delicious and surprising dishes in a relaxed setting, prepared by local chefs.
What to expect at Kok@Zee?
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Evening Market
The Evening Markets in De Haan are the perfect activity for a cosy summer evening along the Belgian coast. In July and August, evening markets are held on Thursday evenings, alternating between the Marktplein and the Zeedijk in De Haan. The exact dates for 2027 will be announced on the organiser's website, ...
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Flanders Sings in Wenduine
Enjoy the sense of community during the Flanders Sings event, an annual sing-along taking place at the Market in Wenduine. This free event invites everyone to sing along with popular Dutch songs and international hits. What Can You Expect at Flanders Sings in Wenduine? - Musical Experience: Sing along with timeless classi ...
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Evening Market in Wenduine
The Evening Markets in Wenduine are an annual summer event held along the atmospheric Zeedijk. In July and August, a total of five evening markets are organised, the perfect way to end a delightful summer day. What can you expect at the Evening Markets in Wenduine? - Summer Vibes: Stroll along the sea-facing stalls on a ...
Read more
Giant Festival in Wenduine
July
Every summer, Wenduine bursts into a cheerful explosion of folklore, music and giant-sized fun. The Reuzenfeesten are a unique experience for young and old alike, and completely free! Two days full of giants, music and gezelligheid - Highlight: The Great Giants Parade on Saturday: The impressive giants procession, which ...
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Belle Epoque festivities De Haan
End of July
Every summer, the charming De Haan transforms into an atmospheric open-air theatre during the free street theatre festival Boulevard De Haan. What can you expect during Boulevard De Haan? - International Street Theatre: Stunning acrobatics, humorous mime, physical comedy and poetic performances, brought to life by artists ...
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Fireworks in Blankenberge
Blankenberge knows exactly how to end a festive evening: with a spectacular seaside fireworks show! A magical experience for both young and old. When can you expect Fireworks in Blankenberge? Every year, there are three fixed moments when the sky above the beach lights up in all the colours of the rainbow. 21 July, ...
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Food Truck Festival SMA(A)K in Bredene
During a sunny weekend in July, the Duinenplein on Kapelstraat in Bredene transforms into a flavoursome open-air festival site. The annual food truck festival SMA(A)K is the place to enjoy three full days of delicious food, great music, and good vibes, all completely free! What can you expect at SMA(A)K in Bredene? - ...
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Vosseslag Festivals
End of July
Experience the lively Vosseslagfeesten with activities for the whole family, including a flea market, stilt walkers, and various live music performances.
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Circus Barones in Bredene
Circus Barones brings you a traditional circus, with lots of acrobatics. Under the guise of 'Circus like circus should be', you'll be treated to the most amazing acts. Of course Circus Barones goes big as always. You can watch many artists from home and from abroad who sometimes perform horrifying acts, juggle or show ...
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Circus Barones
Circus Barones brings you a traditional circus, with lots of acrobatics. Under the guise of 'Circus like circus should be', you'll be treated to the most amazing acts. Of course Circus Barones goes big as always. You can watch many artists from home and from abroad who sometimes perform horrifying acts, juggle or show ...
Read more
Flanders Sings in Blankenberge
Enjoy an evening filled with music and community spirit at the Flanders Sings event in Blankenberge. This annual free event brings people together to sing and swing collectively. What to Expect at Flanders Sings in Blankenberge? - Interactive Musical Experience: Flanders Sings puts the audience at the centre. Visitors are ...
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Belle Epoque festivities
Begin augustus
Step back in time and experience the grandeur of the Belle Époque during Trammelant in De Haan, a unique historical event that revives the glory days of the early 20th century. What to Expect at Trammelant in De Haan? - Living Pictures: Trammelant brings to life the daily routines of the bourgeoisie and villagers from ...
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Belgian Sandcastle Championship in Bredene
Every summer, the beach of Bredene, near lifeguard post 2 (het Dunegat), turns into a magical construction site during the Belgian Sandcastle Championship, a cheerful family tradition where imagination, teamwork and beach fun take centre stage. What to expect at the Sandcastle Championship in Bredene? - Sand Art in ...
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Street Market in Blankenberge
Every summer, traditionally at the end of August, the centre of Blankenberge bursts with life for three days during the annual Street Market. From Friday through Sunday, the shopping streets turn into a bustling open-air market filled with atmosphere, music, and great bargains, an event you won’t want to miss! What can ...
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Shrimp Festival in Vosseslag
August
Every summer in mid-August, the charming town of Vosseslag comes alive with the annual Shrimp Festival, a celebration for young and old on the Belgian coast, full of tradition, delicious treats, and great atmosphere. What makes the Shrimp Festival so special? - Shrimp catching on the beach: Experience real fishermen's ...
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Braderie & Flea Market in Wenduine
Every summer at the end of August, the charming town of Wenduine comes alive during the annual braderie. In the heart of the village, around Kerkstraat, locals and visitors celebrate the final weekend of summer together with a cosy three-day festivity. What makes this braderie so special? - Three days of celebration: From ...
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Fun Fair
Twice a year, the charming De Haan temporarily transforms into a bustling fairground village. At the Oude Loskaai, just a short walk from the centre and the beach, you can enjoy a nostalgic fair filled with atmosphere, lights, and fun. What can you expect from the fairs in De Haan? - Twice a year fair fun:- Crocus Fair: ...
Read more
Afro C Festival
The Afro C Festival is a colourful and free summer festival held annually at the cosy 't Paelsteenveld in Bredene, just a stone’s throw from the sea. What can you expect at the Afro C Festival? - Music from the Four Corners of the World: Let yourself be carried away by infectious rhythms and tropical vibes from ...
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Porsche Classic Coast Tour
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Attention classic car enthusiasts! Every summer, De Haan provides the stylish backdrop for the annual Porsche Classic Coast Tour, an event where elegance, nostalgia and a passion for the legendary sports car come together. A day full of Porsche magic by the sea - 2027 anniversary edition: The 10th edition lasts two days. ...
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Festival of Lights in Lissewege
Every summer, the picturesque village of Lissewege transforms into a magical scene filled with light, fire, and music. During the annual Festival of Lights, the white village is illuminated by a sea of candles, twinkling light installations, and intimate fire artworks. As night falls, the winding streets and historic ...
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Open Monument Day in Flanders
On the second Sunday of September, monuments across Flanders open their doors, many of which are otherwise closed or hard to visit. Coastal towns take part too, such as Knokke-Heist and Blankenberge. Admission is free. What can you expect on Open Monumentendag? - Hundreds of places: 913 locations took part in 2026. - A ...
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Zee-Honden-Wandeling De Haan (dog walk)
Eind september
Since 1992, thousands of walkers and their dogs have set off through De Haan every autumn. The Nationale Zee-Honden-Wandeling leads through the dune woods, the Concessiewijk and along the beach. You are also welcome without a dog. What can you expect at the Zee-Honden-Wandeling? - Two loops: Choose a walk of about 8 or 13 ...
