Traditions, Lifestyle & Habits in Brussels

Despite the indifferent attitude to cooking, local people prefer simple food. They always order most familiar and simple dishes in restaurants, avoiding delicacies and culinary delights. However, if travelers order a standard portion of food, the natives will certainly ask to bring them a double one – people here eat a lot, even though the food is quite simple.

Brussels natives are very sociable and friendly, you can easily discuss any topic with them. Nevertheless, it is necessary to avoid talking about the government, the royal family and inter-ethnic relations. As in any other country, there are some taboos here. The local population is very intolerant to French culture, so you should never compare the natives with the residents of France. Local people do not like it when visitors start copying their accent. Such behavior is regarded as a mockery and contempt. Brussels is ahead of many European cities in the number of various national holidays and festivals. It seems that its residents are prepared to have fun every day, and sing and dance on the squares of the city from dawn till late evening.

The beginning of July is the time of a colorful folklore Ommegang festival in Brussels. On the day of the holiday local people dress up in beautiful medieval costumes, and the squares of the city become the location of interesting theatrical and musical performances. Literally, the name of the holiday can be translated as "a procession in a circle". It was celebrated for the first time on the 14th century. Originally the holiday was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, but later it lost its religious significance. Sablon Square is the main location of various celebrations. Besides a grandiose concert here is conducted a fair of artisans, where you can purchase interesting souvenirs, as well as look at the competitions in crossbow shooting. Grand Place Square is the location of a solemn procession, which involves about a half of a thousand of people. Each of them is dressed in a unique medieval costume.

More about Brussels:
Local cuisine and restaurants
Entertainment in Brussels
What to visit in Brussels
Brussels tips
Cityguide to Brussels
Brussels photogallery