Event Details
Welcome to the Brussels Ommegang 2026
On 1 and 3 July 2026, the Grand-Place in Brussels becomes a living stage of the 16th century. The Ommegang is one of Europe's oldest and most magnificent historical pageants, recreating the Joyous Entry of Emperor Charles V into the capital of the Low Countries in 1549. Around 1,400 performers in meticulously reconstructed Renaissance costumes parade across the cobblestones of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, transporting audiences to a bygone era. Since 2019, the Ommegang has been recognised as a Masterpiece of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Highlights
- Two evening shows on 1 and 3 July 2026, starting at 9:00 PM (doors open 7:30 PM)
- Historical procession from Sablon to the Grand-Place from 8:30 PM
- Japan as Guest of Honour 2026, pre-show at 8:10 PM (celebrating 160 years of Belgian-Japanese relations)
- Crossbowmen's shooting competition from 7:15 PM
- Renaissance Village and Renaissance Market at the Sablon (1–4 July, daily from noon)
- Knights' combat on foot and equestrian jousting (1–4 July)
- Free entry to all Sablon festivities throughout the four-day festival
Program & Schedule
The four-day festival runs from 1 to 4 July 2026. The centrepiece is the two evening shows on 1 and 3 July at the Grand-Place. The historical procession departs from the Royal Park and the Sablon district and follows a 1.5 km route through the Old Town to the Grand-Place, where the main spectacle takes place. This year, Japan serves as the Guest of Honour, presenting a dedicated pre-show at 8:10 PM to mark 160 years of Belgian-Japanese diplomatic relations. At the Sablon, free daytime activities from noon to 9:30 PM include the Renaissance Village, a historical market featuring craftsmen and period flavours, plus knights' combat and equestrian jousting throughout all four days.
Tickets & Prices
Numbered grandstand seats on the Grand-Place are required for the evening show and must be booked in advance. Ticket prices range from €55 to €89 depending on the category and seat location. Tickets are available exclusively through Ticketmaster. As the best seats sell out quickly, early booking is strongly recommended. Access to the Sablon activities, including the Renaissance Village, market and jousting, is completely free.
History of the Ommegang
The Ommegang traces its origins to the 14th century, when the Guild of Crossbowmen of the Sablon organised a religious procession in honour of Our Lady of Sablon. The event reached its historical peak on 2 June 1549, when Emperor Charles V attended the magnificent pageant alongside his son Philip, future Philip II of Spain, and other members of the imperial court. The modern version of the Ommegang was revived in 1930 to mark the centenary of Belgian independence and has been held annually ever since.
Visitor Tips
- Book grandstand tickets as early as possible; the best categories often sell out months in advance.
- Doors open at 7:30 PM; arrive early to find your seat before the procession begins.
- The free Sablon activities are ideal for families with younger children during the day.
- Use public transport; nearest Metro stations are Gare Centrale or Bourse.
- Book Brussels hotels for the first July weekend well in advance.
- Light summer clothing is suitable; bring a layer for the evening.
