Celebrations planned for Belgium’s national day

Belgium will be celebrating its national day on 21 July and a number of activities are planned in Brussels to mark the occasion.

The City of Brussels has announced this year's programme of festivities. The National Ball will be held the night before the national day, on 20 July, on the Place du Jeu de Balle in the heart of the Marolles.

This year’s edition will be all the more festive because it marks a double anniversary: that of the ball itself, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, and also King Philippe's 10th anniversary of reign, which will be symbolically celebrated in song.

Starting at 19.30, the public will be able to enjoy music in the company of the royal couple.

The Place du Jeu de Balle will also play host to the Resto National starting at 17.00 on 21 July, with a menu that features mussels and chips.

Also on 21 July, the traditional civil and military parade will begin at 16.00 opposite the royal palace.

The festivities continue in Cinquantenaire park with a “Happy Belgium” concert at 21.00, organised by the prime minister's chancellery.

At midnight, a laser light show and fireworks display from the Cinquantenaire esplanade and arcades will bring the festivities to a close.