Du 22 au 24 mai 2026
Au Parc du Cinquantenaire
A medieval village in the heart of Brussels
For a weekend, the Parc du Cinquantenaire goes back in time with the Etterbeek Medieval Market. For its 31st edition, the event transforms the surroundings of the fountain into a large medieval village, with craftsmen, musicians, re-enactments, camps and entertainment for the whole family.
It’s a perfect outing with children : you can walk freely, observe the costumes, discover ancient trades, attend demonstrations and enjoy the atmosphere without having to follow a set route.
Why go with your family?
Because the format is very easy with children. You can come for an hour or for the whole afternoon, depending on the age, the weather and the energy of the moment.
The youngest enjoy the atmosphere, the costumes, the music and the camps. Older children can be interested in demonstrations, fighting, archery, axe throwing, medieval games and ancient skills.
The setting of the Cinquantenaire also makes the outing very pleasant: large space, easy access, open air, and many things to see without necessarily booking.
Don’t miss
- Medieval camps : The companies open their camps to visitors, especially on Saturdays and Sundays. Children can learn about the outfits, objects, weapons, daily life and games of the Middle Ages.
- Combat demonstrations : Throughout the weekend, medieval fencing demonstrations and tournaments allow you to see the gestures, equipment and techniques of historical combat up close.
- Ancient workshops and know-how: Blacksmiths, craftsmen, vegetable dyeing, pewter medals, old-fashioned candles: the market allows you to discover gestures that you rarely see in a classic family outing.
- Music and shows: The group Krless, the Zirkus Meer company and Teatro Pantastico punctuate the weekend with concerts, stilts, juggling and performances in the paths of the park.
Practical information
Dates: Friday 22, Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 May 2026
Opening hours: Friday from 4pm to 10pm, Saturday from 10am to 10pm, Sunday from 10am to 8pm.
Location: Parc du Cinquantenaire, on the Etterbeek side, access via Avenue de Tervueren.
Entrance: Avenue de Tervueren.
Price: free admission.
Age: for all, very suitable for families.
Duration : self-guided tour, allow about 1h30 to 2h with children.
Access: Mérode metro station, lines 1 and 5. Brussels-Mérode train. Bus 22, 27, 61, 78, 80 and N06.
To bring: comfortable shoes, water bottle, clothing adapted to the weather.
What to do around the market?
Walking in the Parc du Cinquantenaire
Before or after the market, the park makes it easy to extend the outing. Children can run, take a break on the grass and enjoy the monumental décor of the arcades.
Discover the Mérode district
The Mérode district is convenient for eating, having a snack or easily reaching public transport. This is one of the advantages of this exit: we are in the heart of Brussels, with easy access.
Add a cultural tour
The Cinquantenaire is surrounded by museums, which makes it possible to turn the outing into a full day if the children still have energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, admission is free.
No, the event can be visited freely.
Yes, it’s a very family-friendly outing. Children can observe the costumes, the camps, the demonstrations, the craftsmen and the shows.
Saturday or Sunday during the day are the easiest options. Friday nights can be a lot of fun too, but it’s best for families who want to enjoy an end-of-day vibe.
The entrance is via Avenue de Tervueren, with easy access from the Mérode station.
