Event Details
What is the Paulus Festival in Ostend?
The Paulus Festival (Paulusfeesten) is one of Belgium's oldest and largest free city festivals. What began in 1972 as a small folk celebration around the Sint Petrus and Paulus church has grown into a seven day music and street theatre festival that draws tens of thousands of visitors to the Belgian coast every year. Stage performances, street theatre, activities for children and a relaxed festival atmosphere take over the centre of Ostend for the whole week.
When does the Paulus Festival take place in 2026?
The 53rd edition of the Paulus Festival runs from Tuesday, 11 August, to Monday, 17 August 2026. Most days the program starts in the late afternoon and continues into the night; a detailed hourly schedule is published on the official website closer to the event.
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Where is the Paulus Festival held in Ostend?
The main venue is Sint Petrus en Paulusplein, the square around the church of the same name in the heart of Ostend. From there the festival grounds extend across several neighbouring squares, including the smaller Pauluspleintje and the lively Boudewijnplein, so the whole city centre becomes part of the celebration.
Program and highlights of the Paulus Festival 2026
The lineup includes performances by Preuteleute, Absynthe Minded, Jebroer, DiMaro, Rick de Leeuw, Paul Michiels and Funeral Dress. The program also features street theatre, poetry, art installations and a changing annual theme that gives each edition its own creative twist. Families can enjoy daily children's entertainment, and food trucks provide refreshments throughout the week.
Is entry to the Paulus Festival free?
Yes; entry to all concerts and program items at the Paulus Festival is completely free. The festival is funded through on site drink and food sales and local sponsors, making it one of the most accessible major city festivals in Belgium.
Getting there and visitor tips
- Ostend railway station is just a short walk from the festival grounds, so traveling by train is recommended.
- The coastal tram (Kusttram) connects Ostend with nearby coastal towns and runs late into the night.
- Since entry is free, arriving early is worthwhile to get a good spot at the most popular concerts.
- Hotels in Ostend fill up quickly during festival week, so early booking is advised.
No dates have been announced yet for 2027 (TBA); this article will be updated once they are confirmed.
