What’s on this week: 27 March to 2 April

The Foire du Livre de Bruxelles returns for its 55th edition at Tour & Taxis, bringing together authors, publishers and book lovers for four days of literary celebration. With more than 350 activities, 300 exhibitors and around 1,200 authors, the programme includes debates, book signings, performances and immersive experiences. This year’s theme “Defying the future” invites reflection on the role of literature in shaping tomorrow’s world. From major names to emerging voices, the fair offers a dynamic and accessible encounter with literature in all forms. New this year: an immersive space dedicated to romance and the imaginary -  #Love&Whispers.  26-29 March, Tour & Taxis, Avenue du Port 86C

Printemps des Sciences returns for its 25th edition, inviting curious minds of all ages to explore science and technology through a week of free activities. Universities and partner institutions open their doors for workshops, lab visits, demonstrations, exhibitions and talks, covering fields from biology to physics and engineering. The programme encourages visitors to experiment, question and engage directly with researchers and students, making science accessible and interactive. 23-29 March, ULB Campus du Solbosch, Avenue Jeanne 44 (Ixelles)

Sonamos Latinoamerica brings the vibrant sounds of Latin American folk music to Brussels for three days of concerts and cultural exchange. Hosted at the Musical Instruments Museum (MIM), the festival gathers musicians from across South America, blending traditional rhythms, poetic melodies and contemporary songs. It serves as a meeting point for Latin American communities and music lovers alike, offering an immersive journey into the cultures’ diverse musical traditions. Expect live performances by international and local artists, showcasing the energy of Latin American heritage. 25-28 March, Rue Montagne de la Cour 2

Magma Festival returns to Les Halles de Schaerbeek with a 12-hour journey into electronic music, spread across two halls. Blending live performances and DJ sets, the programme moves between club culture and concert formats, with an inclusive and unique lineup featuring artists such as DMX Krew, TUKAN and Mars010c. Beyond the music, the event also includes food stands, a tattoo corner and other surprises, creating a full immersive experience for the whole night. With so much to offer, Magma is fast becoming a key date for electronic music fans in Brussels. 28 March, Les Halles de Schaerbeek, Rue Royale Saint Marie 22 (Schaerbeek)

Looking for extraordinary finds and delightful bargains? Then the Brussels Women’s Club’s Spring Market on Saturday is where you can find brocante items, indulge your sweet tooth with home-made cakes, marmalades and jams, get into the festive spirit with unique Easter decorations, find a great book, adorn yourself with hand-made jewellery And while you're busy browsing for treasures, don't forget to refuel at our Non-Stop Café. 28 March 10.00-14.00, Rue au Bois 509 (Woluwe-Saint-Pierre)

The annual Holy Wednesday concert at the Cathedral of Saints Michael and Gudula returns with a programme centred on Vivaldi’s Stabat Mater. Performed by mezzo soprano Isabelle Everaerts de Velp and the Penserosa string ensemble under Maia Silberstein, the evening also features works by Bach and Marin Marais. Set in one of Brussels’ most striking sacred spaces, the concert offers a reflective musical moment in the days coming up to Easter. Entry is free with reservation (arsincathedrali@gmail.com) and a voluntary contribution at the end.  1 April 20.00, Cathedral of Saints Michael and Gudula

BachWerk teams up with the Brussels Chamber Ensemble for a baroque programme built around two striking settings of Dixit Dominus. Handel’s powerful 1707 masterpiece is paired with a lesser known version by Viennese composer Marianna von Martines, offering a fresh perspective on the genre. The concert also includes Vivaldi’s Spring from The Four Seasons, with the talented Laura Esnaola as violin soloist. Conducted by Clio Zois, the evening features a lineup of young vocal soloists alongside the Brussels based choir, known for its dynamic and quality performances. 28 March 19.30, Eglise Saint Marc, Avenue De Fre 76 (Uccle)

Bozar hosts a new edition of the Writers Parliament, bringing together Belgian authors from both sides of the Flemish and French linguistic divide for a public debate on literature and society. This sixth edition explores the theme of beauty, inspired by Philip Roth’s remark that literature is not a “moral beauty contest”. Writers Alara Adilow, Hans Depelchin, Alix Garin and Mel Moya reflect on the tension between aesthetics, ethics and the role of writing in an increasingly troubled world. The bilingual discussion is moderated by Nicky Aerts and Pascal Claude, with simultaneous translation provided. 1 April 20.00, Bozar, Rue Ravenstein 23

OUTSIDE BRUSSELS

Forty years ago, a bunch of graduates from Antwerp’s Royal Academy of Fine Arts jumped in a van and crossed the channel to present their designs at London Fashion Week. The positive response by press and buyers was immediate and by the early 1990s, Dries Van Noten, Ann Demeulemeester, Walter Van Beirendonck, Dirk Bikkembergs, Dirk Van Saene and Marina Yee were collectively known as the Antwerp Six. Their radical avant-garde approach to fashion definitely elevated Belgium’s cool credentials. This exhibition at MoMu celebrates the 40th anniversary of their international breakthrough with garments, archives and personal insights. 28 March to 17 January, Nationalestraat 28, Antwerp

Stadsmus in Hasselt pays tribute to ceramicist and visual artist Ludo Thys (1951-2025) with a retrospective showcasing the originality and diversity of his work. From sculptures to functional ceramic pieces and paintings, the exhibition highlights his technical mastery and constant drive to experiment. More than an artist, Thys was an influential teacher who inspired generations. This homage explores his legacy not only as an artist but also as a person, offering insight into a unique and multifaceted artistic career rooted in craftsmanship and curiosity to explore new methods and ideas. Until 27 September, Stadsmus, Guido Gezellestraat 2, Hasselt

Designers and artists draw public attention to environments whose existence is threatened by human activity in Memo. Memories of the Future, a new exhibition at Grand-Hornu’s Innovation and Design centre CID. Conceived by the curatorial duo d-o-t-s (Laura Drouet and Olivier Lacrouts), it follows on from the centre’s previous show, Plant Fever. The transdisciplinary works are an invitation to take action to protect endangered landscapes, traditions and species. The Grand-Hornu site, a former coal mining village that includes the cultural centre MAC’s, is well worth a detour. 29 March to 30 April, Rue Sainte-Louise 82, Hornu (Hainaut province)

Comedy festival Namur is a Joke is well underway in the Walloon capital for its fifth edition. Once again, tickets are flying out the door for the line-up of francophone comedy stars. Festival founder Guillermo Guiz is joined by a host of comedians to entertain the crowds. If some shows are already sold out, there are plenty of satellite events and afterworks that promise to be a lot of fun. Until 29 March, Le Delta, Grand Manège, Théâtre de Namur and other venues

Discover more upcoming events at The Bulletin's events page.

Photos: (main image) Foire du Livre ©Expo Taicca; Bozar Writers' Parliament ©Marin Driguez; The Antwerp Six ©Karel Fonteyne; ludo Thys Pandora's Box courtesy the artist; Grand Hornu CID Neve, Insular Cotton, 2020 ©Diogo Bento; courtesy Namur is a Joke