Brussels museums launch Nocturnes season of late-night openings on 11 April

From workshops on tattoos, tango and fanzines to film screenings and torchlit walks, this year’s edition of the Nocturnes offers a packed programme in museums across Brussels.

Some 42 museums are participating in the popular scheme from 11 April to 23 May. They will be staying open late on Thursday evenings throughout the spring, on a rota system.

In addition to exhibitions and permanent collections, visitors can participate in guided tours, artistic workshops and other activities. The multilingual programme is adapted to suit a wide audience.

For this 23rd edition of the seasonal event, museums open from 17.00 to 22.00, with standard entrance costing €6 and €3 for under 26s, while a Nocturnes Pass provides 3 tickets + 1 free.  Some offer free admission, including the Museum of the National Bank and the Maison des Arts.

Each museum stages different activities and exclusive behind-the-scene visits. New institutions opening their doors include the Belgian Beer World (pictured), while the Jewish Museum of Belgium and the KBR are an opportunity to visit venues before they close for renovation work.

Several museums offer outdoor activities, such as the Meise Botanic Garden, the Paul Moens medicinal plant garden, FeliX Art & Eco Museum and Maison Cauchie.
 
The Nocturnes kick off on 11 April with an opening event in the courtyard of the Brussels City Hall. It includes free activities like a giant board game and a guided tour to all the museums opening on the first Nocturnes evening.

Photos: ©Sewer Museum; Belgian Beer World ©Eric-Danhier