Procession of the Holy Blood
Bruges : Ascension Day, Fifth Sunday After Easter
The bishop of Bruges walks around town with a vile of holy blood while characters act out biblical scenes in costume. The Belgium tourism website has more information on this historic event. Bonjour, pagan Europe!

Sablon Spring Baroque Music Festival
Brussels : April or May
A combination of open-air and indoor concerts takes play for one week in the Place du Grand Sablon. Starting with luncheon concerts given by students, the day progresses into prestigious orchestras by night. Visit the Sablon district's website for more information.

Jazz Marathon
Brussels : Three Days in mid-May
A gaggle of great gigs is waiting to greet you at Grand Place, Place du Grand Sablon and Place Sainte-Catherine in their clubs, cafes and hotel bars. Visit the event's official website for more information.

Belgian National Day
Brussels : July 21
Music and a military procession at the Royal Palace make the day on this holiday celebrated all over Belgium but mostly in the capital city.

Carpet of Flowers
Brussels : mid-August in Even Years
The Grand Place is carpeted in a bed of 600,000 begonias creating a beautiful tapestry. Why? Just for the heck of it. We love Brussels. The Flower Carpet site has more info.

Blue Note Festival
Ghent : mid-July
The first week of the Blue Note celebrates jazz in its more traditional form, while the second week highlights genres derived from the form, such as soul and electronic. Visit the Ghent Jazz Festival site to learn more.

Pukkelpop
Hasselt : mid-August
Going strong since '85, this affordable 3-day festival offers an eclectic mix of rock, hip hop, metal, punk, and electronic music. The Pukkelpop site has info about the coming year's lineup and more.