Culture beat – September 19

British comedian, writer and activist Mark Thomas is not averse to controversy and political investigation. Catch his solo show at Théâtre 140 in Stand Up Brussels on Saturday night at 20.30 (pre-show Indian buffet from 17.15).

The annual Heritage Days in Brussels this weekend has chosen, fittingly, history and memory as its central theme. The buildings open to the public in the free event have all witnessed a major historical event or are linked to a famous figure. Heritage days are a rare opportunity to visit sites normally off limit to the public. The extensive programme incorporates numerous places linked to World War One, from museums public buildings monuments and unexpected locations. Many, such as street names and memorials, recall the events and  upheaval the conflict and occupation had on the city and its inhabitants. They include the Petit Château in Boulevard du Neuvième de Ligne, the Martyrs’ Square crypt, La Monnaie opera house, the statue to resistance heroine Gabrielle Petit, and the Anglo-Belgian Memorial in Place Poelaert.  You can also join walks linked to many of this sites.

Don’t forget public transport rules in Car-Free Sunday, from 9.00-19.00. Or take to two wheels as  the focus of the day’s activities is the bicycle. Special permission is required to drive in the city on this day (you need to apply for a pass) and but there’s a speed restriction of 30km in place. Taxis and emergency services will still be running. Around 25 towns and neighbourhoods outside Brussels are also making their centres car-free zones this Sunday, as part of the ongoing Mobility Week.

If the rain holds off, one activity for all the family during the day is Bruxelles Champêtre, Place des Palais, from 10.00-19.00. The square and park is transformed into a country picnic site with a farmers’ market, selection of 50 brewers, accompanied by the sounds of jazz and other live music and DJs. A specified  children’s area should help to keep the little ones occupied. More than 100 progressive local farmers and artisans are participating, making it one of the city’s biggest green festivals.

Continue the new season of networking by dropping in to the Lex restaurant in Arts-Loi for an Autumn Afterwork with @seven on Thursday September 25. Reserve ahead for the €15 Italian buffet at prteam@atseven.eu or telephone 0475.67.42.91. Enjoy a free glass of Cava from 19.00-21.00 and dance away to the beats of DJ Pericles from 22.00 until late.

Art lovers and antique collectors can look ahead to  Brussels Art Square next weekend, September 26 & 27 in the Sablon. Exhibitions in more than 50 art galleries, antique shops and auction houses plus a British theme with 15 dealers and galleries invited for the occasion in a cultural partnership with The National Trust. The event includes guided tours and talks.

There’s no excuse now not to visit one of the season’s  major exhibitions or cultural venues as the annual Brussels Museums Nocturnes is now underway. Every Thursday, six to eight museums open their doors late to visitors for a reduced price from 17.00-22.00. More than 60 museums are participating in the event. Plus guided tours and other activities.

Outside Brussels

Celebrating its long and rich brewing heritage is the Poperinge Beer and Hop Festival this weekend, until Sunday. The centre of the West Flemish town is filled with activities from overflowing beer stands in the main square, to the Hop Museum, the crowning of the Hop Queen and a hop parade with more than 1,000 costumed participants.

Beer, as well as local alcohol pekét, are in similar abundant supply at the Fêtes de Wallonie, in Namur, Liège, Mons and a few smaller towns until Monday. Free concerts, folklore parades and unrelenting merrymaking!