Belgium
A perfect “close-to-home” tour and popular all year round, it is no surprise that Belgium has become one of our most desirable destinations. The local markets, canal cruises, diamond museums and renowned brewery tours offer your band a terrific insight into this unspoilt region. Alongside the many cultural delights of this country, a visit to the battlefields of the First World War is a truly moving experience for any touring party. Perfect for a long weekend, your band can enjoy performing in charming concert venues whilst experiencing the finer side of Belgian culture. With good food, ever flowing beer, locals who will welcome you with open arms and a strong brass band culture, it is clear to see why more and more bands visit Belgium to perform every year. With a multitude of great restaurants and bars, arranging post-performance celebrations with a Belgian ‘twist’ is a fantastic finale for your tour.
Where to Play
Ostend, De Haan and Blankenberge
If you prefer a more informal performance experience, seaside resorts such as Ostend, De Haan and Blankenberge are ideal for bands performing in the summer months. The bandstand at Ostend is particularly beautiful and ornate and enjoys fantastic audiences due to the busy nature of this historic coastal town.
Bruges Market Square
Bruges Market Square is a favourite for many of our groups and draws bustling and appreciative audiences. Why not enjoy the local speciality of mussels and frites at one of the many restaurants after your performance?
Ypres – Menin Gate – Last Post Ceremony
Taking part in the Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate is an emotional and memorable experience for any band. Visiting bands are invited to perform a small selection of hymns and the National Anthem at an extended ceremony under the Menin Gate. Many of our bands have commented that this was the highlight of their tour.
Bobbejaanland Theme Park
If you have a real desire to let your hair down, then a day in the Bobbejaanland Theme Park should be scheduled into your tour. Here you can enjoy the rides and perform a concert in the park to experience the best of both worlds!
Christmas Markets
The colourful Christmas markets taking place all over Belgium create the perfect opportunity to combine performances with pleasure. With festively decorated stalls, open-air skating rinks and busy shoppers all around, your performances are sure to be well attended and appreciated.
What to Do
Battlefields of World War I
A visit to the Battlefields of World War I is an unforgettable and thought provoking experience for anyone visiting Belgium.
Ghent
Ghent combines historical canals, statues, squares and beautiful old architecture with a cutting edge university scene. Modern art collections delightfully juxtapose the UNESCO world heritage sites whilst the gentle canals pulse with a festival atmosphere during the annual Ghentfest.
Ypres, Poperinge and Ostend
Great days out with shopping and sightseeing combined with history and culture.
Bruges
A stunning destination steeped in culture and history, Bruges offers its visitors a well-rounded Belgian experience. Watch the famous Belgian chocolate being hand-made and visit one of the many engaging museums. Enjoy a guided tour of the city, in English, on a canal cruise before trying your hand at a little beer tasting on a brewery tour. This historic town is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, and was the European Capital of Culture in 2002.
Brewery Tours
The story of Belgian Beer told before your very eyes… with over 450 different varieties available, Belgium has become a Mecca for beer tasting and tours.
Prices from £279*
Where to Stay
Pax Hotel, Dixmuide
The 4-star Pax hotel is located in the centre of the small town of Dixmuide. All rooms are equipped with en-suite facilities, T.V., radio, telephone and hairdryer; some also have a balcony. The hotel is within walking distance of the historic town centre complete with a large market place and many bars and restaurants.
*Price based on 45 paying passengers travelling by coach in October, on a bed and breakfast basis at the Pax Hotel for 4 days 3 nights. The tour price also includes the services of a courier, instrument trailer and two concerts. Priced at 09.03.09.
