Gentse Feesten is an annual cultural festival held in Ghent, Belgium. It is one of the largest and most vibrant cultural festivals in Europe, lasting for ten days. The festival features a diverse range of activities, including music performances, theater, dance, street art, and comedy. Both local and international artists participate, and various venues around the city host performances, including open-air stages and intimate settings. Gentse Feesten is a celebration of creativity and community, drawing thousands of visitors who enjoy the lively atmosphere, cultural diversity, and the beautiful medieval backdrop of Ghent.
DATES & TIMES
• Festival dates (2026): Friday–Sunday, 17–26 July 2026 (10 days). Visit Gent.
• Programme rhythm: Free stages and activities from afternoon into late night across the city centre; the opening ceremony is held on the first Friday evening (times publish in the official programme). Check the programme.
LOCATION
• Where: Historic centre of Ghent — the Festivity Zone covers squares and riversides such as Korenmarkt, Sint‑Baafsplein, Vrijdagmarkt, Baudelopark, and Graslei/Korenlei.
• Download the Festivity Zone map (PDF) · Open in Google Maps (Korenmarkt).
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Free public festival across most locations; some indoor shows or partner events may be ticketed—book via the listing on the official programme. Browse events.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Getting around: Public transport is the easiest way—trams and buses are reinforced during the Festivities. Public transport info.
• Traffic & parking: Check live parking and access updates before you go. Traffic dashboard.
• Low‑Emission Zone (LEZ): Driving into the centre? Vehicles with foreign number plates (except Dutch) must register. LEZ basics · Register your vehicle.
• Accessibility: Ghent publishes detailed accessibility info and maps. Download the brochure (PDF).
Making a Gentse Feesten city break effortless? We’ll map your can’t‑miss stages, secure a walk‑to‑festival stay, and plan late‑night tram/taxi routes—you just enjoy the party. Hire Tripologiste.