Belgian National Day

Belgian National Day History

Belgian National Day is a public holiday in Belgium that marks the country's unification and establishment as a constitutional monarchy. The festivities include a range of cultural, social, and even military events held in various locations, primarily Brussels, where the main celebrations take place.

The origins of Belgian National Day date back to the 1830s when Belgium declared its independence from the Netherlands, following a period of political unrest and a brief revolutionary uprising. The new nation's founding was officially marked on July 21, 1831, when Leopold I, the first King of the Belgians, took the constitutional oath in a highly symbolic ceremony. This historical event holds a particular significance for the European Union, as Belgium is one of its founding members and continues to be the home of several of its central institutions such as the European Commission and the European Council.

Various cultural initiatives, typically involving culinary delights, traditional music, and dance performances from different regions of Belgium, are hosted to encourage cultural exchange and promote unity between the European nations. Belgian National Day is observed annually on July 21st.

Top facts about Belgian National Day

• The theme for Belgian National Day in 2023 was Happy Belgium!
• One of the most important dates in the Belgian Revolution is December 20, 1830. This was the day when the power recognised the separation of Belgium and its province from the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
• The primary catalyst that led to Belgium’s independence was the Belgian Revolution that occurred on 25 August, 1830. Revolutionaries destroyed industry buildings and looted shops. Army recruits deserted, which left the military powerless.
• The current King of Belgium is Philippe Léopold Louis Marie. He ascended to the throne in 2013 when his father, King Albert II, stepped down.
• A reform is a correction of abuses; a revolution is a transfer of power. – Edward G. Bulwer-Lytton, English novelist, poet, playwright and politician.

In the News and Trending in the EU for Belgian National Day

Belgian National Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Attend the king’s inspection of the Belgian Army in a parade that passes in front of the Royal Palace and around the Parc de Bruxelles.
• Attend the re-enactment of a military camp by the 101e Airborne in the Parc de Bruxelles. This re-enactment commemorates the Second World War which greatly affected Belgium and Europe as a continent.
• Watch a movie about the Belgian revolution, Belgian heritage or Belgian pride. Some of our favourites are: Daens (1992), De Witte (1934), and Brussels by Night (1983).
• Go to the popular feast in Parc de Bruxelles and Place Poelaert and have some delicious food with some local Belgian nationals! Try some croquettes, croquet (grilled sandwich), eel and flamiche (cheese tart) to celebrate the day.
• Spread awareness of social media by using the hashtag #BelgianNationalDay, #BelgianDay, #21JulBelgianDay and #BelgianIndependenceDay.