Autumn in Brussels
If you love autumn and you happen to call Brussels your home, look no further. This is your guide to the thrills of the autumnal season in the heart of Belgium. From bookworms to nature freaks, there is something here for everyone.
For the book lovers
For the fans of books and make-believe.
Comic Con
You might need to start dusting off your costume a bit early this year. Just one week before Halloween, treat yourself to a ticket to the universe of comics, film, manga, games and cosplay at the biannual Comic Con at Tour & Taxis. Fans of pop culture, lightsabers at the ready: the countdown has already started.
Brontës walk
Did you know that Charlotte and Emily Brontë once lived in Brussels? And do you know which of Charlotte’s novels is set there? Curious about the behind-the-scenes “bloopers”? Then you should definitely join the excellent Brontë walk organized by Helen McEwan and the Brontës in Brussels society.
I can’t think of anything more fitting for an autumn Sunday morning than strolling across the cobblestones of the historic city centre while uncovering stories about these two formidable writers.
Want a taster of the tour? Leaf through my experience below!
Danae Pergamali
Waterstones book club
Fans of Mary Shelley’s Gothic masterpiece, rejoice! Waterstones is hosting a book club meeting at the end of October. Grab your copy and secure your spot.
Bookshop in style
Saturday, shopping, slow coffee and books. If your heart skipped a bit when you read the words above, then I have the perfect recommendation for you. Check out the joined enterprise of Filigranes – bookshop – and Mayfair – luxury department store, right in the heart of Brussels’ chicest shopping street.
Browse books and curiosities, enjoy coffee and pastries, and, if your wallet allows, treat yourself to a little luxury. You’ll probably find me rummaging through the English section.
If you are a downtown gal, then Passa Porta bookshop is your go-to. A stone's throw from the newly renovated Bourse, this literary haven is situated on one of the most stylish streets in Brussels' centre. Hidden in a dark alley, look out for their little backboard sign. It will lead right into the city centre's most precious literary gem.
For the artsy
If you want to feed your inner artist with some underground vibes, follow the trail below.
The Sewer Museum
Ever wondered what Brussels looks like under street level? The Sewer Museum will take you on a trip to the underworld – no wandering spirits here, just an intricate sewage network awaiting to be discovered.
Museum of Fanstastic Art
There’s no better museum to visit in October than the MAF (Museum of Fantastic Art). Its peculiar collection is a treasure trove for lovers of the spooky and the surreal. Looking for a Halloween warm-up? This is it. Don’t miss it!
Museum of Medicine
With the ultimate fall staple, the Wiertz Museum, currently closed for renovations, the next contender might just be the Museum of Medicine. Not exactly the definition of art, but definitely artsy in its unique way, this museum professes to bridge the gap between art and science. If skeletons and anatomical drawings lure your imagination, then don't give this one a miss.
For the spookheads
You are free to choose your level of scary, but you should try at least one of the ghostly activities the capital of Europe has to offer.
Guided tour of crime scenes
Ever heard of the legend of the Devil’s Corner? What do you know about the crime of the Saint-Gery square? For the curious souls with an eye on the dingy side of the road, then a tour in the dark alleys with the Brussels Crime Tour is a must.
Horror movie night
On Halloween night, the Wolf Food Market turns into a movie theatre. Expect haunted decor, jump scares, a food voucher, and naturally, a scary movie. Count me in.
Halloween fair
Brussels finally has its own Halloween fair. It was about time. After last year's success, Tour & Taxis is once again organizing a funfair full of spooky treats, games, workshops for the little ones and plenty more thrills. A must for all Halloween lovers out there.
For the outdoorsy
For the free spirits who would rather get their scares under the falling leaves, I’ve got you.
Pumpkinmania
If you've got a soft spot for the quirkiest queen of the autumn vegetable kingdom, don't sleep on this one. Hop on a train to Groot-Bijgaarden and get ready to step into pumpkin paradise. Pumpkinmania holds workshops that range from pumpkin carving to pumpkin boat ride – and yes, even pumpkin slaughtering. Feeling peckish? Why not try some pumpkin fries or pumpkin falafel? I'm sold on the classic pumpkin soup.
Bonus: full Halloween vibes from 25 October.
Dia de Muertos – Marolles
From October 27 to November 2, the Marolles neighbourhood celebrates the Mexican Day of the Dead in full color. Expect lots of music, singing and concerts. The festivities culminate in a massive parade bursting with rhythm and spectacle through the streets of Brussels.
Tram 44
This isn't any usual city tram. Tram 44 is a Brussels legend that will take you on the city’s most stunning autumn ride. Hop on at Montgomery all the way to Tervuren whilst taking in the magnificent autumnal landscape. It's a 20-minute journey, yet it feels like a world away from the city. Got a little extra time? Step off at the terminus and wander through Tervuren Park for autumn in its full splendour.
Cemetery walks
Plenty of people swear by autumnal cemetery walks. It's the mix of tranquility, nature and the macabre that draws in hikers and autumn enthusiasts alike. Tempted by the scenery but put off by the idea of walking amongst the dead? Then bring along your quirkiest friend and turn it into an adventure: hunt for famous graves or declare a contest for the most atmospheric autumn photo.
Staying in the city during autumn does not have to be dull. There is something for everyone. And even if you don't have the time or budget for grand outings, treat yourself to a walk through the local park after work or get your morning coffee and stroll through the fallen leaves. Autumn is more than a season. It's feeling. A quiet wonder at how nature, even in decay, can be so majestic.
