Hey, fellow travel or flower enthusiasts (or just people who appreciate pretty things)!
If you’ve ever dreamed of walking through a sea of flowers without actually getting your feet wet, then Brussels has got just the event for you. Every two years, the city rolls out the most extravagant welcome mat you’ve ever seen—made entirely of flowers! Yep, I’m talking about the legendary Brussels Flower Carpet.
Taking place on the cobblestones of the Grand Place, one of Europe’s most stunning squares (and yes, I’m totally biased, but also not wrong), this event is a true feast for the eyes. But what exactly is it, and why should you go? Let me give you the lowdown.
What’s the Brussels Flower Carpet All About?
Picture this: you’re standing in the middle of a UNESCO World Heritage site, surrounded by centuries-old architecture, and BAM—right in front of you is a massive carpet of flowers, stretching 77 meters long and 24 meters wide. Made up of over half a million begonias, dahlias, grasses, and bark, the Flower Carpet is a stunning piece of art that you can only experience in person every other August.
Each edition of the Flower Carpet features a unique theme. Past themes have celebrated everything from Japanese art to the culture of Mexico. It’s basically a giant floral shout-out to the world. The designs are intricate, with every petal placed by hand by a small army of volunteers. Imagine the patience and skill that takes! Definitely puts my attempts at flower arranging to shame...
When and Where Can You See It?
The Flower Carpet is a fleeting beauty—it’s only on display for a few days (usually around the 15th of August), so timing is everything. You’ll find it in the Grand Place, which is already one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, but when it’s decked out in flowers, it’s just next level. The square becomes a garden fit for a fairytale, attracting tourists, photographers, and Instagrammers from all over the world.
While the main attraction is the carpet itself, there’s more to enjoy. There’s usually a light and music show in the evening, which adds a whole new layer of magic to the experience. And don’t forget to climb up to the balcony of the Town Hall for the best view of the carpet—you’ll get that perfect bird’s eye shot that’s guaranteed to make your followers swoon.
Why You Need to Go
Now, you might be wondering, “Is a carpet of flowers really worth the trip?” The answer is a resounding yes! This is one of those events that you have to see to believe. The sheer scale and beauty of it are enough to take your breath away. Plus, it’s a perfect excuse to explore Brussels. You can easily spend a day wandering the city’s charming streets, indulging in Belgian waffles, chocolate, and maybe a cheeky pint of local beer—hey, you deserve it after all that flower gazing!
The Brussels Flower Carpet is more than just an Instagrammable moment (though it’s definitely that too). It’s a celebration of art, culture, and the simple beauty of nature. So mark your calendars, pack your camera, and get ready to be wowed. Trust me, this is one Brussels event that you won’t want to miss!
See you there, flower fans! 🌸
Event Details:
- When: Every two years in mid-August
- Where: Grand Place, Brussels
- Website: Brussels Flower Carpet
*Photographs not from myself, but coming from Wikipedia page.