Halloween in Belgium 2026: Events and Traditions

Halloween is bringing a spooky atmosphere to Belgium this October, with pumpkin decorations, costume parties, family activities and special events planned in several cities and towns.

This year, Halloween falls on Saturday, October 31, giving families and friends more time to enjoy the celebrations. From children’s activities in Brussels to Halloween events on the Belgian coast, there are options for different ages and interests.

Whether you are new to Belgium or have celebrated Halloween here for years, here is what to know about the 2026 season.

When Is Halloween in Belgium in 2026?

Halloween takes place on Saturday, October 31, 2026. Celebrations and themed activities are expected to take place throughout the final weeks of October, with some attractions running for several days.

Halloween is not an official public holiday in Belgium. However, it has become a popular seasonal occasion for families, schools, businesses and entertainment venues.

Many activities focus on costumes, pumpkins, spooky decorations and games for children. Others offer horror-themed experiences and evening entertainment for adults.

Halloween Events in Brussels

Brussels offers several ways to celebrate Halloween in 2026, from activities for young children to more unusual experiences for visitors looking for something different.

One option for families is Mini-Europe, where Halloween-themed decorations and attractions are scheduled during the autumn school holidays, from October 17 to November 8.

Children can explore the miniature park among pumpkins, spooky figures and themed displays, making it an option for families who want a seasonal outing without choosing a full horror experience.

Another event is planned at the Autoworld museum on Friday, October 30, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The evening combines Halloween-themed storytelling with the museum’s collection of cars. Children wearing costumes can also take part in trick-or-treating.

For families in Neder-Over-Heembeek, a free Halloween event with a children’s ball is scheduled for Saturday, October 31.

These activities offer different ways to celebrate, whether you prefer a daytime family visit or an evening event.

Halloween in Antwerp: A Free Activity for Children

Families in Antwerp can look forward to a Halloween Survival Run at Fort Merksem on Saturday, October 31.

The free activity is designed for children aged five and older when accompanied by an adult. Participants can take on an obstacle course featuring more than 15 challenges, including large inflatable obstacles.

The event is scheduled for the afternoon, with participants able to start the course between 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.

It offers an active alternative to traditional Halloween parties, allowing children to combine costumes and seasonal fun with physical activity.

Parents should check the event’s latest arrangements before travelling, particularly if they are planning to attend with younger children.

Halloween on the Belgian Coast

The Belgian coast is also getting into the Halloween spirit this year.

In De Panne, families can take part in a free trick-or-treat activity on Friday, October 30, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Children and adults can dress up and follow a designated route through De Panne and Adinkerke, visiting participating homes to collect treats. Houses taking part in the activity display a special sign in their windows, helping visitors identify where they are welcome.

The following evening, Saturday, October 31, De Panne is planning another Halloween celebration along the Leopold I Esplanade.

The event is scheduled to include an immersive Halloween trail, a themed village and fireworks. The village is due to open at 4 p.m., the trail starts at 5 p.m., and the evening’s fireworks are scheduled for 8:30 p.m.

Both events provide opportunities for families and visitors to enjoy Halloween outdoors. Because the activities take place in late October, warm clothing and suitable footwear are worth considering.

Is Trick-or-Treating Popular in Belgium?

Trick-or-treating is part of Halloween celebrations in Belgium, but it is not equally common in every neighborhood.

In some communities, families organize routes where participating homes welcome children in costumes and offer sweets. Elsewhere, families may prefer organized events, school parties or activities hosted by local associations.

If you want your children to go trick-or-treating, it is best to check whether your neighborhood has an organized route or participating households.

Children should visit only homes that clearly welcome trick-or-treaters, respect residents who do not participate and remain with a responsible adult when necessary.

For families who prefer a planned activity, organized events such as the one in De Panne offer a clear route and set visiting hours.

Halloween Costumes and Decorations in Belgium

Costumes are a major part of Halloween, with children often dressing as witches, vampires, skeletons, ghosts and other fictional characters.

Families may also decorate their homes with pumpkins, artificial cobwebs, lanterns and spooky figures. Some schools and community groups organize costume competitions, craft activities and themed parties.

You do not need an elaborate costume to take part. Simple outfits, face paint and homemade decorations can be enough to create a Halloween atmosphere.

For outdoor activities, consider the weather when choosing a costume. A warm jacket, comfortable shoes and a visible accessory can make an evening outing more practical.

Is Halloween a Public Holiday in Belgium?

No. Halloween on October 31 is not an official public holiday in Belgium.

That means it should not automatically be treated as a day off work or school. Individual schools, businesses and attractions may organize special activities or adjust their schedules, but arrangements vary.

All Saints’ Day falls on November 1. In 2026, it falls on a Sunday. Opening hours can differ between individual shops, attractions and services, so it is sensible to check local arrangements if you are planning a full weekend out.

Tips for Enjoying Halloween in Belgium

A little planning can help you make the most of the Halloween season.

• Choose an activity that suits your family. Daytime attractions may be more suitable for young children, while evening horror experiences can be better for older visitors.
• Check the date carefully. Some celebrations take place on Friday, October 30, rather than Halloween itself.
• Dress for autumn weather. Belgium can be cold, rainy and windy in late October.
• Plan transport in advance. Check your route home, especially if you are attending an evening event.
• Respect local residents. When trick-or-treating, visit participating homes and follow the organizers’ instructions.
• Allow extra time. Popular family activities may attract crowds, particularly on the Saturday of Halloween weekend.

Halloween in Belgium: What to Expect in 2026

Halloween in Belgium offers more than costume parties. Families can explore seasonal attractions in Brussels, take part in an obstacle course in Antwerp or enjoy organized trick-or-treating and an outdoor Halloween celebration on the coast.

With October 31 falling on a Saturday, Halloween weekend is a convenient opportunity to plan an activity with children, meet friends or experience a different side of Belgian community life.

The best choice depends on your location, budget and the kind of atmosphere you enjoy. Whether you prefer a relaxed family outing or a more frightening evening experience, planning ahead can help you make the most of Halloween in Belgium in 2026.