Are you planning a trip to Brussels in 2024 to see the spectacular Flower Carpet and need some advice and tips? If so, you’ve come to the right place!
In this article, you’ll find all the information you need to ensure a pleasant and memorable experience at the Brussels Flower Carpet.
So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, read on to discover how you can visit the Brussels Flower Carpet this year.
How Did The Flower Carpet Began?
The story begins in 1971 when Etienne Stautemas, a landscape architect, created the first flower carpet. Using over 500,000 begonias, he designed this breathtaking display in the historic Grand Palace.
His vision was to bring people together and celebrate Belgium’s tradition of floral art. Over time, the event gained popularity, evolving from a local celebration to an internationally recognized festival.
This stunning carpet flower drew more visitors to each event. Now, meticulously crafted by about 120 volunteers, nearly a million begonias are used to create the carpet in under six hours. Let’s not forget to mention that this event takes place every two years!
How The Carpet Flower Is Made?
Every two years, a designer creates a unique pattern for the Brussels Flower Carpet based on a chosen theme.
To prepare this beautiful carpet, volunteers spread a thin layer of sand over the Grand-Place square and lay a micro-perforated plastic sheet featuring the design template, which guides the volunteers in placing the flowers.
On the day of creation, volunteers use nearly a million flowers to complete the 1,800 m2 (19,000 sq ft) carpet.
They carefully place the begonias and other flowers into the template, following the designed pattern and gently packing them together to create a seamless and lush carpet. A really painstaking work!
After placing all the flowers, volunteers lightly water the carpet to keep the flowers fresh. They complete the entire process in about six hours, thanks to their hard work.
The masterpiece of flowers transforms the Grand Place into a vibrant, living work of art, showcasing the skill, creativity, and teamwork that volunteers put into producing together this popular event every two years.
When is the Next Carpet Flower Event?
The next Flower Carpet event will be held from August 15 to August 18, 2024. It’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the evening if you want to avoid the big crowds.
The flowers are set up on Thursday, with an opening ceremony in the evening, making it an ideal time to catch the first glimpse.
Pro Tip: Try to catch the sunrise or sunset over the carpet for stunning views and fewer crowds.
Is the Carpet Flower Free to Visit?
Most of the viewing areas around the Grand Place are completely free, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful carpet without spending a dime.
However, if you wish to get a better view, you can purchase tickets to access the balcony of the City Hall, which overlooks the Grand Palace.
Balcony tickets usually cost 7 euros and can usually be purchased in advance online closer to the event dates.
How to Get to The Flower Carpet?
To get to the Flower Carpet in Brussels, head to the Grand Place/Grote Markt, the historic city center. You can easily reach Grand Place by metro (stations De Brouckère or Gare Centrale/Centraal Station).
If you go by train (Brussels Central Station). You can also get there by bus or tram. Whatever you choose (stop Bourse/Beurs).
If you choose to drive, which isn’t recommended, there are several public parking garages nearby but know that parking spaces are limited.
Best Spot to See The Flower Carpet?
As mentioned earlier, one of the best places to view the Flower Carpet is from the City Hall (Hotel de Ville) balcony.
There are also several cafes and restaurants in the buildings that surround the Grand Place, such as the Chaloupe d’Or and the Roi d’Espagne, which offer great views from their upper floors, although these spots are often crowded and may require reservations or a minimum purchase.
Be aware these establishments are expensive, so be prepared!
If you prefer a ground-level perspective, walking around the perimeter of the carpet is free and accessible to everyone, but keep in mind that you won’t be able to fully appreciate the intricate design from this vantage point.
Can You View the Flower Carpet Online?
For whatever reason, you can’t visit in person, you can still view the Brussels Flower Carpet online.
During the event, a live webcam stream is available on the official Flower Carpet website and social media channels.
This allows you to admire the stunning floral display for free from your comfortable house.
What Flowers Are Used For The Flowers Carpet?
The Brussels Flower Carpet primarily consists of begonias, which are hardy flowers that come in a wide range of vibrant colors, including red, pink, orange, yellow, and white.
Begonias are well-suited for the event due to their durability and ability to create intricate patterns and designs.
In addition to begonias, the Flower Carpet may also incorporate other flowers like dahlias to add texture and variety, as well as grass, bark, and occasionally other natural materials to enhance the overall design.
What Are the Opening Hours Of the Brussels Flower Carpet?
The Brussels Flower Carpet is open for viewing every day during the four-day event. The opening hours are slightly different on the first day compared to the rest of the days.
On Thursday, the first day, you can admire the carpet from 1 PM to 10 PM. From Friday to Sunday, the viewing hours are extended, and you can visit the Flower Carpet from 10 AM to 10 PM.
However, it’s always best to check the official website closer to the event date for the most accurate opening hours.
How Much Time Do You Need To Visit The Flower Carpet?
If you really want to enjoy the Flower Carpet and take some great pics, I suggest staying for at least half an hour or even longer.
Many cafes and restaurants surround the Grand Place, offering the perfect opportunity to sit and admire the stunning floral display while enjoying a refreshing drink or a delicious meal.
Just keep in mind that these establishments can get quite busy during the event, so seating may be limited. But if you’re lucky enough to find a spot, you’ll be able to have a breathtaking view of the Flower Carpet.
Nearby Attractions To Explore
There are stunning nearby attractions you can explore while visiting the Brussels Flower Carpet, all within walking distance:
- Manneken Pis, the famous bronze fountain sculpture of a urinating boy, is just a short walk from the Grand Place.
- The Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert, a beautiful 19th-century shopping arcade, is also nearby.
- The Brussels City Museum (Maison du Roi) is located right on the Grand Place and offers exhibits on the city’s history.
- The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula, a stunning Gothic church, is just a 10-minute walk from the Grand Place.
- The Rue des Bouchers, a historic street lined with restaurants and cafes, is a great place to grab a bite to eat after exploring the flower carpet and nearby sights.
Tips
1. Plan ahead: Book your accommodation and transportation well in advance, as the city can get busy during the event. Consider staying near the Grand Place for easy access to the Flower Carpet.
2. Arrive early: To avoid the largest crowds and get the best views of the carpet, try to arrive early in the morning or later in the evening. Keep in mind that the display is illuminated at night, offering a different but equally stunning perspective.
3. Be patient: The Flower Carpet attracts a lot of visitors, so be prepared for crowds and potentially long lines. Bring water, snacks, and comfortable shoes to make your wait more pleasant.
4. Be prepared for rain: Brussels weather can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to carry a compact, travel-sized umbrella with you just in case of sudden rain. This will ensure that you can continue to enjoy the Flower Carpet and explore the city without getting drenched. If you don’t have an umbrella, consider bringing a lightweight raincoat or poncho that you can easily pack in your bag.
Final Words!
In conclusion, visiting the Flower Carpet is an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss! Whether you choose to view the carpet during the day or at night, under the glow of the illuminated sky, you’ll be captivated by its beauty and transported to a world of floral wonder. So, mark your calendar, book your accommodation, and prepare to be enchanted by the magic of the Brussels Flower Carpet!
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Wow, what can I say? Those flower carpets look live. That is a weird thing to say, as obviously all flowers are alive. The fact that they look as though they have a life of their own. I live in Guatemala where they pave the main street in flowers on festival days, or fiestas as they call them. I would undoubtedly recommend seeing these flower carpets. It is such a shame I am so far away from Brussels flower carpet
Hi Catherine,
Thank you so much for your lovely comment! I can totally understand how you feel—there’s something almost magical about seeing those flower carpets in Brussels. They really do look like they’re alive, with all the vibrant colors and intricate designs. Your description of the flower carpets in Guatemala sounds beautiful too! It must be such an amazing sight to see the streets paved with flowers during the festivals. If you ever do get the chance to visit Brussels during the Flower Carpet event, I’m sure you’ll find it just as breathtaking. Hopefully, one day the distance won’t seem so far!
All I can say is wow, who would have ever thought that people would be that skillful when it comes to putting together such a design with flowers it is so amazing and mind-blowing. I believe that this flower show is worth the trip as you take in such beauty that’s put together by human hands.
Hi Norman,
Thank you so much for your lovely comment! I completely agree—it’s incredible how much skill and artistry go into creating such an elaborate design with flowers. The sheer scale and precision of the Brussels Flower Carpet is truly mind-blowing, and seeing it in person is an unforgettable experience. It’s definitely worth making the trip to witness this stunning display, and knowing that it’s all crafted by hand just adds to the magic. I’m so glad you enjoyed reading about it!