Planning a trip to Belgium this year, or are you lucky enough to live there? Knowing the public holidays in advance can help you plan long weekends, city breaks, or just enjoy some well-deserved time off.
Stay with us as we take you through all the public holidays in Belgium in 2025,
so you can make the most of your free days!
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🌍 Traveling to or living in Belgium?
Want to experience Belgium’s local festivities? Plan your trip around a bank holiday! Don’t miss Belgium National Independence Day on July 21, with parades, concerts, and fireworks. Stay right in the heart of the action by booking a room at one of the two MEININGER Hotels in Brussels, for a central and budget-friendly stay close to all the main events. Discover the best hidden gems and local favorites with our guide on how to do Brussels like a local.
Living in Belgium? Bank holidays are perfect for a quick trip without using vacation days! Many holidays fall near a weekend, making long weekend trips super easy. From Belgium, a quick train ride takes you to Amsterdam, Cologne, Hamburg, or Paris in just a few hours. And… you can stay at MEININGER Hotels in all of these cities! Check out the bank holidays in France 2025 to see how public holidays compare and plan your travels accordingly!
🗓️ Calendar of bank holidays in Belgium
These holidays are celebrated all across Belgium, which means most businesses, schools, and government offices will be closed. Essential services like hospitals and some stores may still be open (especially in big cities).
📍 Regional public holidays
The Kingdom of Belgium is divided into three regions, and each one has its own special holidays. If you live in one of those, you might even get an extra day off!
Time to plan ahead, take out your calendar, and get ready for local events in Belgium, relaxing breaks, and new adventures!
Bank holidays in Belgium 2025: FAQs
What are the public holidays in Belgium in 2025?
Belgium has several public holidays in 2025, including Good Friday (April 18), Easter Monday (April 21), Labor Day (May 1), Ascension Day (May 29), and Whit Monday (June 9). Other major holidays include Belgium National Day (July 21), Assumption of Mary (August 15), and Christmas Day (December 25). Most businesses, schools, and government offices close on these days, but essential services may remain open in larger cities.
When is Belgium’s National Day in 2025?
Belgium’s National Day falls on Monday, July 21, 2025. It’s a major celebration featuring parades, concerts, and fireworks, especially in Brussels. If you want to experience the festivities, consider staying at one of the two MEININGER Hotels in Brussels for a central and budget-friendly stay near all the action.
How do public holidays affect businesses in Belgium?
On public holidays, most businesses, schools, and government offices in Belgium close for the day. However, essential services such as hospitals and some larger supermarkets or stores, especially in major cities, may remain open. If you’re visiting, plan ahead to avoid inconvenience.
Are there extra regional holidays in Belgium?
Yes! Belgium has regional public holidays based on its three main regions:
• Brussels-Capital: Iris Day (May 8)
• Flanders: Day of the Flemish Community (July 11)
• Wallonia: Day of the Walloon Region (September 21) and Day of the French Community (September 27)
• German-speaking areas: Day of the German-speaking Community (November 15)
If you live in one of these regions, you may get an extra day off!
What are the best times to visit Belgium based on public holidays?
Public holidays are a great time to visit Belgium, especially during big celebrations like Belgium National Day (July 21), which features parades and fireworks in Brussels. Long weekends, such as Easter Monday (April 21) or Whit Monday (June 9), are also perfect for short city breaks. Plan your trip around these dates to make the most of local events and festivities.
How can I use Belgian bank holidays for travel?
Many Belgian holidays fall near weekends, making them ideal for short trips without taking extra vacation days. From Belgium, you can easily visit nearby cities like Amsterdam, Paris, Cologne, or Hamburg by train in just a few hours. Plus, MEININGER Hotels are available in all these destinations, offering a budget-friendly and comfortable stay.
Is public transport available on Belgian public holidays?
Yes, public transport still operates on public holidays, but some services may run on a reduced schedule. Major train routes, such as those connecting Belgium to Amsterdam, Paris, or Cologne, usually continue to run, making holiday travel easy. Always check timetables in advance for any changes.
Is Boxing Day (December 26) a public holiday in Belgium?
Yes, Boxing Day (also called St. Stephen’s Day) is a public holiday in Belgium on Friday, December 26, 2025. It follows Christmas Day, giving people an extended festive break. Many businesses and offices remain closed, but shops in larger cities may stay open for post-holiday sales.
How can I experience Belgium like a local during bank holidays?
To experience Belgium like a local, join the festive celebrations on Belgium National Day (July 21), enjoy the seasonal markets around Christmas, or visit local events tied to regional holidays. For insider tips, check out our guide on How to Do Brussels Like a Local and explore hidden gems beyond the usual tourist spots.
Where can I stay during Belgium’s public holidays?
For a budget-friendly and central stay during Belgium’s public holidays, check out MEININGER Hotels in Brussels. Located close to major attractions, our hotels offer comfortable rooms, a guest kitchen, and a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for making the most of your trip!
🛎️ Make the Most of Your Bank Holidays in Belgium
Belgium’s rich history and vibrant cities make it the perfect getaway for a long weekend. Use this bank holiday guide to plan your next trip—whether it’s exploring Brussels’ Grand Place, indulging in Belgian chocolate, or visiting charming towns like Bruges. And for a comfy, budget-friendly stay, check out MEININGER Hotel Bruxelles City Center and MEININGER Hotel Bruxelles Gare du Midi —perfectly located for your holiday adventures!
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MEININGER Hotel Bruxelles City Center: Quai du Hainaut 33, 1080 Bruxelles, Belgium
MEININGER Hotel Bruxelles Gare du Midi: Rue Bara 101, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
