Bread Fest: Brussels to host first festival dedicated to artisan breadmaking in Belgium

The first festival in Belgium entirely devoted to artisan breadmaking is being staged at Tour & Taxis’ sustainable hub Be-Here on 9 November.

Open to both professionals and baking enthusiasts, Bread Fest includes tastings, workshops and an inaugural competition to find Belgium’s best baguette, as well as opportunities for networking.

Although Belgium is increasingly home to artisanal bakers and millers, this is the first time an event has been created specifically for them to show off their skills and craftmanship.

It is organised by nonprofit Tartine & Boterham, well-known in the capital for promoting the world of independent bread-making and patisserie. “Artisanal baking is experiencing a real revival in Belgium, yet those involved rarely have the chance to all come together,” explained organiser Géry Brusselmans.

“With Bread Fest, we wanted to create that space: a festival for learning, sharing expertise, recruiting, and celebrating great bread—from the north of the country to the south,” he added.

Despite targetting primarily professionals, the festival is also open to skilled bread bakers. In addition to networking activities, including job interviews run in “speed dating” sessions rebranded as "speed baking" and roundtable discussions, it runs 90-minute workshops that are open to everyone. Topics range from sourdough bread making to exploring different types of flour. Participation costs €35 per person, which includes admission to the festival.

Finally, the festival also launches a new competition to search for Belgium’s best baguette. Open to all artisan bakers in Belgium (with a maximum of 50 entries), participants will bring along  their fresh baguettes on the morning of the festival, which will be judged on-site by a jury of professionals.

Bread Fest
9 November, 9.00 to 17.00
Be-Here
Rue Dieudonné Lefèvre 4 (Tour & Taxis area)
Brussels

Admission: €13 (free for those registered for a workshop)