Antwerp Summer Events 2008

There are lots of cool Summer Events in Antwerp. Here is a list for 2008!

Antwerp Beach
Takes place during the whole whole summer.
A mecca to beach lovers and those that simply want to catch a few sun rays after work. The "Antwerp Beach" is a long stretch of golden sand in the docks south of the city centre, offering sports and cultural activities.

For visitors who just want to chill, there are terraces with comfy sun loungers, an open-air cocktail bar, uninterrupted views of the River Schelde, plus a wide range of food options.

15 August: Rubens Market:
8 AM to 10 PM - Admission free

This market on the 'Grote Markt' in honour to Antwerps' most famous resident. Traders dress in period costume to peddle their wares, turning the Grote Markt into a replica of one of the master's works.

14 - 17 August - Jazz Middelheim
Park middelheim

Back in 1981, Jazz Middelheim's organisers decided to bring jazz to a wider audience by transposing the genre from late-night smoky bars to open fields in the afternoon. Ever since, world-class performers have been invited to Antwerp's Middelheim Park.

In 2008, don't miss the Charles Lloyd Quartet, Toots Thielemans (a Belgium Jazz legend) and the New Cool Collective Big Band.

Taste Antwerp Culinary Festival

Fri 22 August 4pm-12am
Sat 23 August 12pm-12am
Sun 24 August 12pm-10pm

In August, foodies descend upon the Grote Markt square in the historic town centre of Antwerp for the three-day Antwerp Taste Festival. Twenty-five renowned restaurateurs and caterers offer tasty titbits of their own creation, at very democratic prices.

Well-established names alongside up-and-coming gastronomic talent pitch up luxurious tents on and around Antwerp's Grote Markt. This is the perfect opportunity to sample traditional Belgian cuisine, often with a modern slant.

And at €1.80 a ticket, you'll be tempted to try it all.

Antique Market

Every Saturday from Easter through to October antique dealers and tourists crowd the street that runs alongside the Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp's Historic Centre. Although you are unlikely to find any real bargains at the antique market, this is a good place to pick up a more unusual souvenir. Don't be afraid to haggle.

Antwerp Events:
Things to do in Antwerp from September to November 2008.