Molenbeek for Brussels 2030: Colourful parade on 15 July celebrates culture capital bid

In the race for the title of European Capital of Culture, Molenbeek for Brussels 2030 (MB2030) is parading through the city on 15 July.

The colourful procession leaving from Molenbeek's Municipal Square at midday marks the official presentation of the bid “with a powerful message of generosity, solidarity, and hope for the future,” said organisers ahead of the event.

Weaving through the city centre via Dansaert, Anspach and Rue de Laeken, the march by residents, associations, schools, artists and partners will arrive at the Marie-Elisabeth Belpaire building in Boulevard Simon Bolivar at 13.30.

The municipality of Molenbeek, supported by the city and region of Brussels, is competing against the Flemish city of Leuven and the Walloon city of Namur in the final of Belgium’s bid for the European Capital of Culture in 2030.

Molenbeek is advocating for a participatory candidacy in which culture is a driver of social, urban, and cultural transformation. It is driven by the concept of ‘Sadaka’, which means generosity and voluntary giving in languages such as Hebrew, Arabic, Swahili and Urdu.

Overcoming stigma surrounding municipality

The candidacy by the often maligned municipality aims to showcase the richness of its diversity with 140 nationalities living together in the canal side district north of the capital.

“Our ambition is to create a city where everyone feels welcome, supported, and heard – and thus contribute to a new European narrative based on generosity,” said Fatima Zibouh and Jan Goossens, co-commissioners of the project.

Its priorities include empowering young people to build their own futures, strengthening social cohesion, reinstating nature in the city, creating safe and welcoming public spaces, and making art and culture part of everyday life – in an inclusive and accessible way.

Zibouh and Goosens concluded: “Everyone's support is essential. Everyone has a place in this project and can contribute in their own way. This parade illustrates the importance of making this crucial step in the process as collective, generous, and joyful as possible.”

The winner of Belgium’s bid for the title is due to be announced at the end of 2025 following a visit by the international jury to each of the selected cities and a further presentation by each candidate.

Photo: ©Molenbeek for Brussels 2030 (MB2030)