Turnhout

🎭 Activities

Carnival – February: This vibrant festival in February features a colorful parade, street performances, and music. It’s an exciting event where locals and tourists enjoy traditional costumes and funfair rides. 

Winter Celebrations – January: Winter festivities in January include ice skating and cozy Christmas markets with festive stalls. The town square is beautifully lit up, creating a magical holiday atmosphere. 

Antique Market – March: March brings a huge antique and flea market, where visitors can hunt for vintage items, collectibles, and second-hand treasures. It’s an excellent opportunity to find unique antiques or quirky objects. 

Dance Festival – April: April marks the International Dance Festival with a series of performances, workshops, and cultural exchanges. Dance lovers can enjoy a variety of styles, from ballet to contemporary. 

Book Fair – May: The Book Fair in May invites authors, publishers, and readers to explore new works. Book signings, panel discussions, and literary debates make it a perfect event for book enthusiasts. 

Food Festival – June: June is the month for food lovers as the local food festival showcases regional delicacies. You can enjoy everything from Belgian waffles and cheeses to local craft beers and hearty stews. 

Open-Air Concerts – July: July is packed with free outdoor concerts in the town’s parks and squares. Local musicians perform a variety of genres, creating a lively and relaxed atmosphere under the summer sky. 

Art Exhibition – August: The summer art exhibition in August presents contemporary works by local artists. It offers a great chance to experience modern art in various galleries and public spaces throughout the town. 

Medieval Days – September: September brings medieval reenactments, street markets, and workshops. Experience life in the past with performances and activities for all ages, immersing yourself in history. 

Heritage Walks – October: Guided heritage walks in October take you through the historic heart of the town, showcasing its medieval architecture and rich cultural history. These tours are an excellent way to learn about the town’s past. 

Craft Fair – November: The Winter Craft Fair in November features handmade goods from local artisans. Visitors can find unique gifts and crafts, perfect for the upcoming holidays. 

Christmas Market – December: The Christmas market in December is a festive highlight, with beautifully decorated stalls selling crafts, local delicacies, and holiday decorations. The town becomes a magical winter wonderland.  

🔹 Small Facts

Playing Card Capital: The town is known as the heart of Belgium’s playing card industry, having been at the forefront of playing card production for centuries. 

Beguinage History: The Beguinage is one of the oldest and best-preserved examples of a community of religious women. It represents the region’s rich spiritual and social history. 

Home to Flemish Card Games: The town played a pivotal role in the creation and development of several popular Belgian card games. 

Textile Industry Roots: Turnhout was a major player in Belgium’s textile industry, especially in wool and linen production. This shaped its economic and cultural growth. 

The Flemish Revolution: During the Flemish Revolution, the town was a significant site for the struggle between the locals and the aristocracy, influencing the region’s political landscape. 

Railroad Origins: The town played an integral part in Belgium’s early railway development, transforming it into an industrial hub. 

Cultural and Industrial Evolution: Turnhout is a city that balanced its industrial roots with a rich cultural scene. The synergy of both helped propel its modern-day development. 

Local Breweries Tradition: The town boasts a long history of brewing, with local breweries crafting unique Belgian beers that have become integral to its cultural heritage. 

Strategic Role in World War I: Turnhout’s strategic location made it significant during World War I, where it was a site for various military movements and resistance activities. 

Natural Beauty: Surrounded by forests and nature reserves, the town offers hiking and wildlife watching opportunities that contrast its industrial past. 

Early Belgian Law: The medieval town played a pivotal role in the development of Belgian law, influencing local governance and the legal system in the region. 

The Birth of Belgian Folk Music: Turnhout is considered one of the birthplaces of traditional Belgian folk music, with early compositions contributing to the country’s musical identity. 

Architectural Influence: The town blends medieval, Art Nouveau, and modernist architecture, providing a visually captivating urban landscape for visitors and residents alike. 

Home to the First Paper Factory: The town was home to Belgium’s first paper factory, pioneering an important industry that contributed to the region’s economic growth. 

Cultural Hub for Craftsmen: Turnhout has a long tradition of craftsmanship, particularly in woodworking, pottery, and textile arts, passed down through generations.