Zinneke Parade Brussels 2026
The Zinneke Parade is one of Brussels’ most unique street events. Every two years, hundreds of locals take over the city centre with music, costumes, and giant moving art. It’s not a traditional parade—it’s a creative celebration of Brussels’ diversity, culture, and community spirit.
The 2026 edition will once again fill the streets with colourful energy, live performances, and artistic surprises.
When to see the Zinneke Parade?
Date:
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Saturday 9 May 2026
Time:
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Parade starts around 15:00 and lasts until 17:30–18:00
Price:
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Free to attend
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No tickets required
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Arrive early to get a good viewing spot
What to Expect of the Parade?
Unlike traditional parades, the Zinneke Parade has no floats pulled by cars. Everything is made by hand and powered by people.
What makes it special:
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🥁 Live drumming, dancing, and acrobatics
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🎭 Costumes, masks, and street theatre
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🧑🎨 Local groups from every part of Brussels
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🎨 New theme chosen for each edition
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🚫 No advertising, no commercial sponsors—just pure creativity
The parade winds through the city centre, with multiple “zinnekes” (groups) performing along the way.
Why Is the Zinneke Parade in Brussels Held?
The Zinneke Parade was created in 2000 to bring people from different parts of Brussels together. It celebrates the city’s diversity, creativity, and community spirit. The word “Zinneke” itself refers to someone who comes from mixed backgrounds—just like Brussels.
Local groups, schools, artists, and volunteers all work together for months to create the costumes, music, and performances. The result is a unique, non-commercial event where everyone can express themselves, no matter their age, language, or origin.
How to Get the Zinneke Parade?
Address: Rue de la Bourse, Boulevard Anspach, and Sainte-Catherine
Car: Avoid driving. Roads in the city centre will be closed or blocked. Use public transport instead.
By Foot: The parade route runs through the city centre, mostly near Rue de la Bourse, Boulevard Anspach, and Sainte-Catherine. Easy to walk from Grand Place or Central Station.
Bus: Multiple buses run into the city centre, but some may be diverted during the event.
Metro: Lines 1 & 5: Gare Centrale or Sainte-Catherine. Lines 2 & 6: Yser or De Brouckère
Tram: Lines 3, 4, 92, 93: stop at Bourse, Rogier or De Brouckère
F.A.Q’s about the Zinneke Parade in Brussels
Is the Zinneke Parade free?
Yes, it’s 100% free. You don’t need a ticket.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes! It’s fun, creative, and safe for all ages, though it can get crowded.
Can I join the parade?
Only if you’re part of a Zinneke group, but you can volunteer or support as a spectator.
How long does the parade last?
Usually about 2.5 to 3 hours, from 15:00 to 18:00.
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