Belgium’s beer culture, rooted in a brewing heritage dating back to the Middle Ages, stands as a UNESCO representative list for beer culture—the only country worldwide to achieve this recognition. The growth of breweries began in the Middle Ages when monks, permitted to brew unlimited stocks due to unsanitary drinking water, turned brewing beer into a domestic activity. The 20th century posed challenges, with many breweries closing due to the economic aftermath of war. Fortunately, a revival took place in the 1960s, and today, Belgium’s beer industry is experiencing a new era of prosperity.
Belgians infuse bold flavors into their beers, exploring spices like bitter orange, coriander, and grains of paradise, as well as fruits such as cherries, raspberries, or apricots. The seven styles of Belgian beer, including Abbey-style, blonde strong ales, Saisons, Spéciale Belge, Belgian wheat beers, Oud Bruin, and Lambic beers, showcase the diversity of the country’s brewing traditions.
Begin your beer pilgrimage at Cantillon Brewery in Brussels, where a self-guided tour and a tasting session offer a firsthand experience of their renowned brews. For a more traditional setting, explore Abbaye d’Orval in Florenville, near France and Luxembourg, and delve into the medieval abbey ruins and on-site museum.
Belgium hosts numerous beer festivals year-round, guaranteeing an opportunity to join the festivities whenever you visit. From the oldest beer fest in Wallonia, Week-End Bières Spéciales à Sohier in February, to the Beer Experience Expo Festival every two years in Antwerp, and The Koerselse Biermarkt in Beringen in April, there’s a diverse array of experiences.
In May, Aarschot’s pub walk provides a unique beer discovery, offering more than 45 different beers across participating bars. The Belgium Beer Weekend in September at Brussels’ Grand Place is a grand finale, featuring parades and around 50 breweries.
As you can see, these are just a few among many festivals happening throughout the year in Belgium. Your chances of finding a festival to partake in are high, regardless of when you visit.
After soaking up the knowledge gained, there’s no better way to savor your discoveries than by hitting a local pub in Belgium. Check out Little Delirium in Brussels for an impressive beer list with a variety of brews or visit Gist, a superb craft beer bar in the historic district, offering a delightful range of craft beers in a cozy setting with indoor and outdoor options.
Belgium’s beer story is special, with a history stretching back for ages and even recognized by UNESCO. Belgium also hosts lively beer festivals throughout the year, ensuring you’ll find one whenever you visit. From the oldest festival in Wallonia to unique pub walks and the grand Belgium Beer Weekend in September, there’s always something brewing. Wrap up your beer adventure by visiting cozy local pubs. They offer a delightful selection of craft beers, making it the perfect ending to your exploration of Belgium’s fascinating beer culture.
Book your stay at Best Western Hotels & Resorts in Belgium.