Aalst

🎭 Activities

Carnaval – February: Aalst is famous for its exuberant Carnival, held annually in February, a UNESCO-recognized event. With grand parades, vibrant costumes, and satirical floats, the carnival captures the spirit of the town and brings together locals and visitors in a colorful celebration. 

Beekse Bos Hike – March: A serene walk through Aalst’s Beekse Bos in March is an excellent way to explore its lush forests and wildlife. The area offers multiple trails, with guided hikes available to delve into the natural beauty and history of the region. 

Aalst Beer Festival – April: In April, the Aalst Beer Festival celebrates Belgium’s rich beer culture. Visitors can enjoy tastings from dozens of Belgian breweries, paired with local food, in a lively atmosphere that highlights the city’s brewing heritage. 

Summer Concerts at Aalst’s Kloosterpark – June: Every June, Aalst’s Kloosterpark hosts a series of outdoor concerts. These free music events feature a variety of genres and are a perfect way to enjoy the summer evenings in a relaxed and festive setting. 

Aalst Street Art Festival – July: The Aalst Street Art Festival in July brings together street artists from around the world to transform the city’s public spaces into an open-air gallery. The event allows visitors to experience both the creative process and the finished pieces in a dynamic urban environment. 

Jazz Festival – September: Held in September, the Aalst Jazz Festival attracts top jazz musicians and fans from all over the world. With performances in various venues around the city, the festival fills Aalst with an energetic rhythm and a celebration of jazz. 

Winter at Aalst’s Christmas Market – December: During the Christmas season, Aalst transforms into a winter wonderland with its Christmas market. Visitors can enjoy festive treats, handcrafted gifts, and the holiday spirit, all set against the charming backdrop of the city’s historical center. 

Aalst Historic Tour – May: A historic tour of Aalst in May offers a deep dive into the town’s fascinating past, from its medieval roots to its role in the industrial revolution. Guided walks take visitors through the old town, highlighting key buildings and historical events that shaped Aalst. 

Cycling Tour of the Dender River – June: June is the perfect month to take a cycling tour along the Dender River, where visitors can enjoy scenic views and explore the quaint villages along the way. The route offers a mix of nature, history, and culture, ideal for cycling enthusiasts. 

Food Festival – October: The Aalst Food Festival in October is a gastronomic celebration of local and international cuisines. With food stalls, cooking workshops, and live demonstrations, it’s an unmissable event for foodies visiting the city. 

Aalst’s Open Monuments Day – September: On Open Monuments Day in September, Aalst opens the doors to several historical landmarks and private buildings. Visitors can explore the city’s heritage with free entry to important sites, including churches, old mansions, and city walls. 

Aalst’s Nature Walks in the Autumn – October: As autumn sets in, Aalst offers guided nature walks through its parks and green spaces. The changing foliage provides a spectacular backdrop for these walks, offering both a visual and educational experience about local flora and fauna. 

🔹 Small Facts

Aalst’s Medieval Roots: Aalst has a rich medieval history, dating back to the 11th century. The town grew from a small settlement into an important trade center, especially during the Middle Ages, due to its strategic location along the Dender River. 

The Evolution of Aalst’s Carnival: Aalst Carnival is one of the oldest in Belgium, with origins dating back to the 16th century. The event has evolved into a massive celebration featuring parades, live music, and a wealth of satirical costumes that poke fun at local and global politics. 

Historic Role of the Dender River: The Dender River was historically vital to Aalst’s development. It provided a waterway for trade and industry, allowing the town to prosper during the industrial revolution, and remains an important natural feature of the region today. 

The Origin of the Aalst Belfry: The Aalst Belfry, built in the 14th century, originally served as a town watchtower. It played a key role in the town’s defense against invaders and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

The Beguinage of Aalst: The Beguinage of Aalst, a tranquil complex of buildings built in the 13th century, was originally home to a community of religious women known as beguines. This well-preserved neighborhood is an important part of the city’s heritage and is included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites. 

Aalst’s Brewing Legacy: Aalst has a long history of brewing, dating back to the 14th century. The town was home to many breweries over the centuries, and its beer culture remains a significant part of Aalst’s identity today. 

Aalst’s Influence on Belgian Art: Aalst has been an important cultural hub in Belgium, with many local artists and writers contributing to the country’s artistic landscape. The city’s historical buildings and cultural events have inspired generations of creative talent. 

Unique Clock Tower: The town’s clock tower, part of the St. Martin’s Church, is known for its unique design. Unlike many traditional clock towers, it is integrated into the church building itself and stands as a symbol of Aalst’s architectural evolution. 

Industrial Revolution Impact on Aalst: Aalst was significantly impacted by the Industrial Revolution, which brought large-scale textile manufacturing to the city. This era changed the local economy and urban development, leaving behind a legacy of industrial buildings and infrastructure. 

Aalst’s Connection to the Textile Industry: During the 19th century, Aalst became a key player in the Belgian textile industry. The town was known for its weaving mills and textile factories, which helped establish Aalst as an industrial powerhouse in the region. 

Traditional Markets: Aalst has a strong tradition of hosting local markets. Every week, the town’s main square fills with vendors selling fresh produce, local cheeses, and crafts, providing a glimpse into the town’s longstanding market culture. 

Aalst’s Role in the Belgian Revolution: Aalst played a pivotal role in the Belgian Revolution of 1830. The town’s residents were among the first to rise up against Dutch rule, and it became an important center for revolutionary activity during that time. 

Historic Town Hall of Aalst: The Town Hall of Aalst, built in the 16th century, is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture. It is a symbol of the city’s civic pride and history, housing important government offices and serving as a center for local events. 

Aalst’s Cultural Significance in Belgium: Aalst is not only known for its carnival but also for its rich cultural scene, with a variety of annual festivals, theater performances, and musical events. The city’s cultural diversity has helped shape it into a dynamic cultural center. 

Architectural Legacy of Aalst’s Old Buildings: Many of Aalst’s old buildings date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, showcasing the city’s historical development. Walking through the city’s old town is like taking a journey through time, with well-preserved facades and architectural details that reflect its rich past.