Sunday, August 9, 2026
The Meyboom Plantation
Every year on 9 August, Brussels celebrates the planting of the Meyboom, also known as the “tree of joy”. This popular Brussels tradition dates back to the thirteenth century and commemorates, according to legend, a victory of the people of Brussels over the people of Leuven.
On Sunday 9 August 2026, the folk groups associated with the Meyboom will walk the streets of Brussels with the tree cut down in the Sonian Forest. Procession, giants, brass band and traditional costumes will accompany this festive day in the center of the capital.
The highlight of the day will take place at the corner of rue des Sables and rue du Marais. To respect tradition, the tree must be planted before 5 p.m. Otherwise, Brussels would symbolically lose its privilege to Louvain.La Meyboom plantation is a great opportunity to introduce children to Brussels folklore and a tradition listed as intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. The event is free and accessible without reservation.
Practical information
- Date: Sunday, August 9, 2026
- Opening hours: from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
- Entertainment on the Grand-Place: from 2 p.m.
- Planting of the tree: imperatively before 5 p.m.
- Planting location: corner of Rue des Sables and Rue du Marais, 1000 Brussels
- Price: free
- Reservation: without reservation
- Recommended age: for all
- Access: public transport recommended
- Good to know: the course and itinerary can be changed on the day
The Meyboom 2026 program
During the day, the procession will follow several stages in Brussels:
- From 1 p.m.: tribute to the Bas-Fonds district and launch of the festivities
- From 2 p.m.: folklore entertainment on the Grand-Place in Brussels
- In the afternoon: tree crossing and activities in the centre of Brussels
- Before 5 p.m.: planting of the Meyboom at the corner of rue des Sables and rue du Marais
- The course and itinerary are subject to change on the day. Planting before 5 p.m. remains the unmissable moment of this tradition.
Questions
The tree is planted at the corner of Rue des Sables and Rue du Marais, in the centre of Brussels. The procession also crosses several streets and squares in the capital.
No, no reservation is necessary. The procession and the planting take place in the public space.
The planting of the Meyboom and the activities organised in the streets of Brussels are completely free.
Yes, children will be able to discover the giants, musicians, costumes and folk traditions of Brussels. Due to the crowds, it is advisable to remain vigilant with the youngest.
The planting of the Meyboom 2026 will take place on Sunday, August 9, 2026. This Brussels tradition is organised every year on 9 August.
The festivities will start at 1 p.m. An animation is announced on the Grand-Place from 2 p.m., before the planting of the tree, which must take place before 5 p.m.
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