Iris Festival in Brussels 2025
The Iris Festival (French: Fête de l’Iris, Dutch: Irisfeest) is the official celebration of the Brussels-Capital Region. Held every year in early May, it marks the anniversary of Brussels becoming its own region in 1989.
The event includes free concerts, open-air activities, street performances, and cultural events across the city. From kids’ zones to late-night music, it’s a full weekend of fun for locals and visitors alike.
When is the Iris Festival in Brussels?
2025 Dates
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Saturday 3 May and Sunday 4 May 2025
Main Events
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Saturday: Live concerts and evening shows
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Sunday: “Iris Day” with family activities, parades, and open doors in regional institutions
Price
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All events are free
What to Expect of the Iris Festival?
The Iris Festival takes over the city centre with something for everyone. It’s Brussels’ biggest annual celebration of culture and community.
Highlights Include:
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Free concerts on Place des Palais
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Street theatre, circus acts, dance, and food trucks
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Open doors at Brussels Parliament, government buildings, and regional offices
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Kids’ village with games, workshops, and performers
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Themed walks and guided city tours
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Light and sound shows on Saturday night
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Why Is the Iris Festival Held?
The Iris Festival (French: Fête de l’Iris, Dutch: Irisfeest) began in 1989 to celebrate the creation of the Brussels-Capital Region. The yellow iris is the symbol of the region and grows naturally in the marshy lands where Brussels was first built.
The event is a way to highlight the city’s cultural diversity, regional pride, and open institutions. It brings together people of all ages, backgrounds, and languages to celebrate what makes Brussels unique.
How to Get the Iris Festival?
Address: Place des Palais, Parc de Bruxelles
Car: Not recommended. Roads will be closed. Use public transport.
By Foot: Main events happen around Place des Palais, Parc de Bruxelles, and nearby streets. Easy to reach from Central Station.
Bus: multiple lines serve the area—plan ahead as some routes are diverted
Metro: Lines 1 & 5: Gare Centrale / Parc
Lines 2 & 6: Trône / Arts-Loi
Tram: Lines 92, 93, and 94 stop near Parc and Royale
F.A.Q’s about the Iris Festival in Brussels
Is the Iris Festival free?
Yes. All concerts and public activities are free.
What languages are spoken at the event?
rench, Dutch, and English are widely used—this is Brussels!
Is it family-friendly?
Very much so. Sunday especially has a focus on children’s events.
Can I visit regional buildings?
Yes, during “Iris Day” (Sunday), you can tour official buildings and join guided activities.
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